Why does drought happen?
• Droughts can’t be prevented because they occur naturally due to a lack of rainfall. But we can strive to use the water resources available more efficiently so reducing the demand for water placed on the environment and so minimise the effects of drought. • Along with water companies we prepare for droughts by producing Drought Plans detailing the actions that will be taken should a drought occur. These actions aim to manage water resources effectively, both for the environment and for public water supply, when they come under pressure by drought. • Hot dry spells are a normal part of most summers and the Environment Agency, water companies and other water users such as farmers and industry do plan to cope with these without restricting water use.
