The UK experienced a prolonged period of dry weather in 2022 which culminated in a severe summer heatwave and record-breaking temperatures, posing challenges for water resources. Impacts of the protracted dry weather and low river levels included environmental stress in aquatic ecosystems, challenges for farmers in terms of irrigation, harvesting and drilling seeds, stressed terrestrial habitats and severe wildfires.
Steve Turner, hydrologist at the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, reflects on this year’s record-breaking heatwave and long period of dry weather and looks at the status of the UK’s water resources as we move into autumn and winter…