Natural Resources Wales (NRW) made the announcement on Thursday, July 30, with the expanded drought status affecting the whole of Wales.
The decision comes after only eight per cent of Wales’ long-term average rainfall was recorded so far in July, putting the nation on track for its driest July in 190 years of records.
NRW first declared drought in north Wales and the Upper Severn last week after environmental thresholds were met.
Rhian Thomas, sustainable water and nature manager at NRW, said: “The intensity of the heat and the exceptional lack of rainfall means this is a rapidly changing picture in Wales.
“Our teams are closely monitoring forecasts and river flows and responding to increasing environmental concerns and incidents across Wales.”
Across the country, river levels have fallen dramatically, with groundwater reserves also lower than normal for this time of year.
The prolonged dry conditions are having a major impact on the environment, agriculture, and water supply.
Ms Thomas said: “The toll on the environment, our land and agriculture is clear to see, with many of our teams still dealing with the aftermath of extensive wildfires which have devastated forestry, grassland and special habitats.”
She urged the public to conserve water, saying: “With no strong indications for notable rainfall in the forecasts, and risks of further heatwaves over the summer, it’s more important than ever that we all use water wisely.
“Every drop we waste is less water for our rivers and wildlife when they need it the most.”
Incidents reported to NRW include dried-up riverbeds, algal blooms, fish in distress, and ongoing wildfire risk.
The farming community has also raised concerns about crop growth, grazing conditions, and water availability for livestock.
To support river ecosystems and fisheries, additional reservoir releases have been authorised in some locations.
Abstraction controls remain in place and are being managed according to NRW’s Drought Plan.
A ‘drought’ is declared by NRW when indicators show a significant and sustained shortfall in rainfall and water reserves, affecting rivers, groundwater, land use, and ecosystems.
Water companies use separate criteria and thresholds for drought declarations related to public water supply.
NRW drought teams are meeting regularly and have increased monitoring across Wales.
Ms Thomas said: “The extreme weather patterns we’ve seen over the last 12 months are a stark example of the impacts of climate change here in Wales and the UK.
“As an organisation, we’re already planning for these kinds of events to become more frequent, with hotter, drier summers and wetter winters predicted to become the norm.
“This includes our long-term drought planning, flood risk management and how we manage our land to become more resilient to the risks of wildfire and pests in the future.”
NRW is working closely with water companies, Welsh Government, the Environment Agency, and the Wales Drought Liaison Group to coordinate its response.
With drought status also declared in many parts of England, NRW is liaising with the Environment Agency on the cross-border rivers Wye, Severn, and Dee.
The public is being asked to take extra care when enjoying the outdoors to reduce wildfire risk and protect stressed ecosystems.
Wildfires should be reported immediately by calling 999, and environmental incidents can be reported to NRW’s 24-hour hotline on 0300 065 3000.
A new campaign, Let’s Save Water, was launched last month across England and Wales to encourage water conservation during the ongoing drought.
Advice and information are available at www.letssavewater.cymru.
