London, July 27 (BNA): The British government announced today, Tuesday, that it is implementing the first stages of drought plans that include careful use of water to protect supplies, after record temperatures.
The Environment Agency (EA) said there are still no plans to restrict water use, but regulators and water companies are working to manage water levels, including by operating water transmission systems to allow rivers to be artificially maintained.
In a statement following a meeting of the National Drought Group, which includes policy makers and industry and environmental protection groups, the agency added that farmers in areas facing prolonged dry weather will receive more assistance and water companies will draw up potential drought plans.
Temperatures in Britain last week topped 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) for the first time ever, sparking property fires in London and setting fire to dry grasslands as a heat wave spread across Europe.
The Energy Agency added that nowhere in England is currently experiencing a drought, and water companies are keeping a good stock of summer demand.
Stuart Colville, UK Water Industry Policy Director.
MI