Scots warned to keep curbing water usage as scarcity still major concern despite rainfall

Daily Record

04-06-2025

Parts of Scotland are "under significant pressure" with experts describing the water environment as "vulnerable"
May brought record-breaking sunshine and temperatures to Scotland - but not without a hitch. Last month, Scots were hit with a stark warning to reduce their water usage following the driest start to a year in Scotland since 1964.
Residents were instructed to take shorter showers, switch off sprinklers, use watering cans and avoid using hoses where possible, although advice stopped short of calling for a full hosepipe ban for the first time in 30 years.
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Scottish Water said that, since mid-April, Scots had been using around an extra 150 million litres of water a day. And despite some parts of the country seeing temporary improvements due to recent rainfall, it is still not enough.
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"We've had rain in some areas but not widespread recovery," Kenny Boag, SEPA's Head of Environmental Performance said.
"There has been some relief in parts of the west, but for many river catchments the long-term deficit remains.
"It's a complex picture... most of the east coast continues to experience water stress.
"Many catchments remain under significant pressure and the water environment is still in a vulnerable state.
"More rain is forecast over the next few days, but we need sustained rainfall in the right places over weeks, not just days, to make a real difference."
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SEPA is warning that parts of the country, particularly in the east, are experiencing water strain.
Most of the East Coast from Moray and Aberdeenshire down to the Borders remains at Moderate Scarcity.
Encouragingly, the rain has improved the situation in the west, and in the south-west, the rivers Almond, Annan, Nith, Dee (Galloway) and Cree have transitioned from Moderate Scarcity to Alert.
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The Leven (Dunbartonshire), Loch Fyne, the Argyll coast, Loch Linnhe, the Lochy (Invernessshire), Loch Shiel, Loch Alsh and Loch Maree have all recovered and are now in Early Warning alongside the Inner and Outer Hebrides.
Similarly, the Awe and Etive area has downgraded to Normal Conditions, due to the heaviest rain falling here.
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However, the rest of Scotland remains at Alert.
Scotland experienced a drier than average autumn, winter and spring, leaving many rivers struggling to recharge.
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And even with recent rain, groundwater remains low in many places.
Kenny did not confirm whether harsher restrictions will be put in place if the situation worsens, nor did he say what those restrictions would be.
But if further action does need to be taken, "it will be proportionate and in place for a short time as possible".
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In the meantime, Scots are being urged to continue using water efficiently and responsibly.
How can Scots help save water?
Using water efficiently in the garden and outdoor spaces by using a watering can instead of a garden hose where possible and avoiding using sprinklers
Taking shorter showers
Turning the tap off when brushing teeth
Using washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded
Using a bucket and sponge rather than a hose to wash the car
You can calculate how much water your household uses by clicking here.
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