The United Kingdom

Abstract

With weather patterns showing a distinct autumnal complexion, August was an unsettled month; and a high frequency of thunderstorms contributed to unusually large spatial variations in rainfall totals. Well above average rainfall had a moderating impact on drought severity in the east but rainfall deficiencies continued to build in the South West. Modest late summer water demand helped slacken reservoir drawdown rates in many drought-affected areas and overall reservoir stocks for E&W are only modestly below the early autumn average. In the South-East, early September stocks were mostly in the normal range, and generally above corresponding levels in 2005. Stocks are, however, seasonally low in the South West (Colliford in particular). August river flows and groundwater levels were mostly below average but, with important exceptions, considerably above drought minima. The impact of long term rainfall deficiencies is most evident in the depressed groundwater levels across parts of the English Lowlands – with associated very low flows in spring-fed streams. In such areas in particular, notably dry soil conditions are likely to extend recessions well into the autumn and, given normal September and October rainfall, could sustain drought conditions into a 3rd successive winter.