MS, Cabinet Minister for
Rural Resilience and Sustainability: Wales has experienced a
prolonged period of hot and dry weather in recent weeks, placing
increasing pressure on the natural environment. On 16 July 2026,
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) moved a number of catchments across
North Wales, the Upper Severn and South East Wales into prolonged
dry weather status. Following a further assessment on 23 July
2026, NRW has declared that Gwynedd, Ynys Môn, Clwyd, Dee and
Upper Severn catchments have now also moved to drought status,
while additional areas of South and West Wales moved from normal
into prolonged dry weather status.
These changes reflect the continued lack of significant rainfall
and sustained high temperatures, which are increasing pressures
on rivers, wildlife and habitats. NRW continues to monitor
conditions closely and coordinate its response in line with its
drought management framework.
Drought and prolonged dry weather are environmental
classifications and should not be confused with measures taken by
water companies to manage public water supplies. The latest
information on environmental conditions and drought status is
available on NRW's Dry Weather update
page.
Separately, Dr Cymru introduced a Temporary Use Ban on 19 July
affecting parts of Mid and South Ceredigion, North Pembrokeshire
and North Carmarthenshire. The company has confirmed this is a
localised response to exceptionally high customer demand rather
than a shortage of water resources and has advised that reservoir
levels remain healthy.
Further information on the restrictions and the current water
supply position is available on Dr Cymru's Dry Weather information
page. Households and businesses served by public water
supplies continue to receive water as normal.
Owners and users of private water supplies, such as wells,
boreholes, springs or streams, who experience difficulties or
require advice should contact their local authority.
The Welsh Government continues to work closely with NRW, water
companies, the Met Office and other partners through the Wales
Drought Liaison Group to monitor conditions and coordinate a
joined-up response.
While there are currently no immediate concerns regarding public
water supplies in Wales, we all have a responsibility to use
water sensibly and sustainably. I encourage everyone to be water
aware, use water responsibly and follow the latest advice from
NRW and their water supplier.
This statement is being issued during recess to keep Members
informed. Should Members wish me to make a further statement or
to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be
happy to do so.
