Drought has been an ongoing problem up and down the country since May
Parts of the country, saw extremely low water levels in May(Image: Getty Images)
Parts of Wales affected by drought this summer are now showing early signs of recovery following significant rainfall throughout September, although full restoration may still take several months.
The scorching summer weather, which caused streams to dry up and led to reports of “fish in distress” and other environmental impacts, prompted Natural Resources Wales to declare drought conditions in affected areas.
Drought was officially declared in south-east Wales on August 14, 2025, followed by north Wales on August 29. Meanwhile, south-west Wales, which had been under prolonged dry weather status since May, has now transitioned into a phase of recovery from the extended dry conditions.
Rainfall data collected by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), shows a strong shift in conditions, with totals ranging from 102% of the long-term average in Bethesda (north Gwynedd) to 212% in Sarn, in the upper Severn catchment, as of September, 22.
River flows have responded positively overall, with most now considered normal or above normal for this time of year. However, NRW noted that some rivers remain “below” expected levels, showing a slower rate of recovery from the summer’s drought.
Groundwater reserves remain a key concern, with some still described as “exceptionally low” for the season. Groundwaters typically respond more slowly to rainfall and are being closely monitored.
“As we head into autumn, our teams on the ground are reporting positive signs of the environment recovering, following one of the driest periods in nearly 50 years,” said Dr Rhian Thomas, Sustainable Water and Nature Manager at NRW.
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“But sufficient rainfall throughout the autumn will now be essential for river flows and groundwaters to fully recover before next spring.”
Although September’s rainfall has brought temporary relief – and in some cases localised flooding, the NRW has observed that certain rivers have “quickly regressed” after heavy rainfall, highlighting the pressure the environment remains under.
“It is likely that it will take many months for our environment to fully recover from the effects of the drought,” Dr Thomas added. For the biggest stories in Wales first, sign up to our daily newsletter here
“We will continue to liaise with the water companies, the Welsh Government and others to monitor forecasts and the health of rivers, groundwaters, habitats and wildlife.”
NRW is also maintaining contact with the Environment Agency in England, as several catchments along the border remain in drought status.
Members of the public concerned about drought impacts or environmental pollution are encouraged to report incidents via the NRW hotline: 03000 65 3000.
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