Subscribe now

Environment

See how the driest early spring in 69 years has parched a UK reservoir

Low water levels at reservoirs like Woodhead in Derbyshire are raising fears of drought conditions over the summer

14 May 2025

WOODHEAD, DERBYSHIRE - MAY 11: An aerial view of Woodhead Reservoir amid low water levels on May 11, 2025 in Derby, England. United Utilities, a water utility in north-west England, warned customers to consume less water as they announced that regional reservoirs were at 69% capacity. Last year at this time, reservoirs were at 90%. The utility said there was a

Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images

The UK’s driest start to spring in 69 years has seen water levels in reservoirs drop, including here at Woodhead Reservoir in Derbyshire. Woodhead is one of several reservoirs that supply water to north-west England, and these are now at just 69 per cent capacity, compared with 90 per cent at the same time last year. The low levels are raising fears of drought conditions over the summer.

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop