Standpipes and Drought in Britain

So today we learnt that Britain could see the introduction of standpipes next year if there is another dry winter like the past few have been. For many this must seem strange seeing as this month has been the wettest  April on record for 100 years.


However, this is precisely the problem. Many dry months have led to a decrease in groundwater levels, something which a few weeks of increased rainfall will not cure. Much of the South of England is currently in drought, with widespread hosepipe bans and authorities encouraging residents to save every drop possible.


According to the experts, England could be dragged back into the 1970s when standpipes were used after drought and a heatwave diminished water resources. Cutting off water supply to homes and forcing citizens to pump water from the street might sound extreme, but it does appear to be an option or rather a last resort if precipitation levels don't start to rise soon.


What England needs is a longer period of above average rainfall, not something us Brits want to hear just before summer starts. Time to book your Mediterranean holidays then!