Wettest summer in 100 years does nothing for groundwater levels

Despite being the wettest summer on record since national records began in 1912, some water companies still fear for the amount of groundwater.

South East Water, in particular, is concerned for levels in their area, claiming that they are “still very low”.

The company explained that despite recent wet weather, the dry winter has a long-lasting effect on their ability to supply water.

“While recent heavy rainfall has replenished reservoir levels, aquifers are filled over a much longer period as water percolates its way down through the soil over many weeks and months”.

Aquifers are a layer of permeable rock underground which has water-bearing qualities. Groundwater can be extracted from aquifers using a water-well.

This method of extracting water provides three quarters of South East Water’s supply.

The company, which provides water for 251,000 homes in Sussex, is reliant on winter and autumn to replenish its underground supply.

Once the growing season begins, trees and plants often take the water supply before it has the chance to seep down into the rock and become accessible in our homes.

South East Water has put in place a 25-year plan to ensure it meets the ongoing demand in their area for water.

“All water companies in the south-east are working together with the Environment Agency to decide the most sustainable options to provide the water needed to meet future demand.”

In the short term, the company is also putting provisions in place – asking customers to bear in mind its summer scheme, where water restrictions were enforced.

Lee Dance, head of water resources and environmental at South East Water, said: “We would like to thank our customers for their fantastic water savings efforts over the summer months.

“While restrictions have been removed and our water resources are in a much better place than they were, we must be prudent and are asking our customers to still do their bit to use water wisely, especially if we have another dry autumn and winter.”

Posted by Claire Manning