Following the driest summer in nearly 30 years, experts are warning that despite winter rainfall another hot dry spell could see drought measures like hosepipe bans return.
The National Drought Group said East Anglia is one of only two Environment Agency (EA) areas remaining in “drought” status.
Despite five consecutive months of above average rainfall over winter some storage reservoirs are still lower than anticipated and groundwater levels in Norfolk are only now beginning to rise slowly.
The group said rainfall over the next three months will be vital.
And they are planning for the worst case scenario of another hot, dry spell this summer to reduce the risk of drought measures - such as temporary use bans and taking additional water from the environment - being required again this year.
NDG chair John Leyland said: “We cannot rely on the weather alone, which is why the EA, water companies and our partners are taking action to ensure water resources are in the best possible position both for the summer and for future droughts.”
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