Northumbrian Water reminds customers to use water wisely as reservoir levels remain low

Despite recent rainfall across the North East, Northumbrian Water is reminding customers to use water wisely as the region recovers from one of the driest periods in recent years.

While recent rain has been welcome, temperatures are expected to remain higher than usual for this time of year, reaching 21°C in parts of the region this week, meaning demand for water is likely to remain higher. 

The reminder comes as reservoir levels across the region remain below average for the time of year.  

Northumberland reservoirs, including Kielder Water, are currently at 74%, while reservoirs in Weardale and Teesdale are at 51% and 59% full retrospectively.  

The Environment Agency, who recently announced that almost three-quarters of England remains in drought, has warned that drought recovery will take time.  While the North East’s status remains as ‘prolonged dry weather’, the country requires 120% of typical rainfall over the next seven months, through to April 2027, for all areas to officially move out of drought conditions.  

Kieran Ingram, Water Director, said: "The recent rain has helped a little, but it has been significant enough. Our reservoirs remain below normal levels, and it will take many months of wetter-than-average weather for rivers, reservoirs and groundwater sources to fully recover. 

"That's why we're asking customers to keep up the fantastic water-saving habits they've developed over recent months. Every drop saved this year puts us in a better position for next year. The water we save today helps strengthen supplies for the future and supports the long-term health of our environment. 

The company continues to encourage customers to make simple changes around the home and garden, including:  

• Turning off the tap while brushing teeth  

• Taking shorter showers  

• Fixing leaky loos and dripping taps  

• Only running washing machines and dishwashers with full loads, and using eco mode  

• Reusing water where possible for plants and gardens (such as collecting water from washing fruit and veg) 

By continuing to save water now, customers can help protect local water resources, support the environment and build resilience for future dry periods. 

For more water-saving advice, visit www.nwl.co.uk/savewater.