THE UK could be in for a dry summer this year despite wet weather through the spring, scientists have warned.
Hydrologist Dr Jess Neumann, of the University of Reading, has explained that droughts could be likely in the coming months, in spite of a damp winter, and a spring which has seen heavy rainfall so far.
This week will see the last few days of a particularly wet spell, but Met Office forecasts predict that Reading residents will get a taste of the summer to come over the coming weekend, as warmer, drier weather is expected from Thursday, May 21, and into the weekend.
Dr Neumann said: “Just a few months ago we were talking about one of the wettest winters on record, yet following an unseasonably dry spring concerns are already being raised around a potential risk of drought this summer.
“The rapid swings from floods to droughts are the result of more variability in rainfall patterns across the UK, something that many climate projections have warned us about.
“Water shortage goes beyond affecting public water supply–a prolonged lack of rainfall impacts food production potentially driving up costs, increases the concentration of water pollutants, and places stress on the health of the natural environment and wildlife.
“In previous years water companies have been accused of “sleeping at the wheel” with regard to water management.
“Remaining attentive to the current water situation is vital if we are to ensure a safe and ready supply of water for society and the environment.
She also explained: “Exactly what this summer will bring depends largely on the weather in the coming weeks and months.
“Many of us have been enjoying the warm dry weather of recent weeks, but we need those grey rainy days too.
“Plus it never hurts to be mindful of how much water we use, especially as we head into summer when the demand for water will increase.”
