Officials have raised concerns about the country’s water resources following this year’s dry spring and warm summer.
England’s drought is likely to continue into 2026 because of the record dry weather, experts have warned.
Helen Wakeham, National Drought Group chair, said: “The recent rain is very welcome, but it needs to be sustained over the next six months to ensure we are ready for next year.
“We need a lot more rain this winter to fill up our rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater. Even if it is wet outside, I urge people to use water as efficiently as possible to protect the environment and public water supplies.
“The changing climate means we must prepare for more droughts. Securing our water resources needs to be a national priority. We expect water companies to continue their water-saving messaging, even through the winter, as well as carry on reducing leaks.”
Average reservoir storage is now 63.3% compared to the average for this time of year of 76%.
September saw 149% of long-term average rainfall across England but, despite Storm Benjamin, October has seen 77%.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Dr Will Lang, said: “This year has been characterised by notable rainfall deficits across much of England.
“By 28th October, provisional data shows England had only 61% of its expected annual rainfall, when we’d normally have about 80% at this time of the year (based on 1991–2020 average). While recent rainfall has helped, regional variations remain, and drought conditions continue to affect several areas.
“Looking ahead, there is an increased risk of dry spells through late autumn and early winter and regional differences in rainfall continue to be likely. Without sustained and widespread precipitation, a consistent recovery from drought remains uncertain.
“We continue to work closely with the Environment Agency and other partners to monitor conditions and support preparedness efforts as we move into the winter period.”
The expert group – which includes the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, – met in central London on Thursday morning.
They heard that England needs at least 100% of average rainfall (482mm) to largely recover from drought by the end of March next year.
Only two months of 2025 have seen more than 100% so far.
Water Minister Emma Hardy said: “It’s been encouraging to see the scorched summer lawns returning to green in recent weeks. But we know the prolonged lack of rainfall continues to pose risks to public water supplies, farming, and the environment.
“We are closely monitoring all regions – especially those still experiencing drought – and working with the National Drought Group and water companies to maintain supplies.
“We face increasing pressure on our water resources. That is why this Government is taking decisive action, including the development of nine new reservoirs to help secure long-term water resilience.”
