THE National Drought Group will meet today in the wake of a four-day extreme heat warning.

The Environment Agency has confirmed that the National Drought Group will meet to discuss the prolonged dry weather.

There are expectations drought could be declared for some parts of England such as southern and eastern areas, prompting action by agencies and water companies to manage water resources to ensure supplies and protect the environment, PA reported.

This comes after the Met Office issued an extreme heat warning for much of the UK which came into force today, Thursday, August 11, and will be in place until Sunday, August 14.

During these days, temperatures are expected to peak in the mid-30s.

 

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “There is a meeting of the National Drought Group being held tomorrow. No decision will be taken ahead of that.”

The National Drought Group, convened by the Environment Agency, also met on July 26 and its “members agreed to continue to work closely together to monitor and manage the current situation, including convening the National Drought Group’s water supply and communications sub-groups”.

 

Stuart Colville, Water UK Director of Policy, previously said: “Ongoing warm weather in much of the country follows the driest winter and spring since the 1970s.

“Water companies have detailed plans in place to manage water resources for customers and the environment, and are doing everything they can, including working closely with government and regulators, to minimise the need for any restrictions and ensure rivers continue to flow.

“As we continue to see extremely high demand, we are urging everyone to carefully consider the amount they are using given the unprecedented conditions.

“The water industry is running a national water saving campaign called Water’s Worth Saving that provides the public with helpful hints and tips on how to do their bit with water use in the home and garden.”