The Environment Agency has issued a warning that the Wessex area, covering Somerset, Wiltshire, Bristol and Dorset, could face drought next year if rainfall over the coming winter falls below about 80 % of the long‑term average.

Following the driest spring for a century and the hottest summer on record in 2025, water supplies in the region are already significantly depleted and the agency says urgent action is needed.

Ian Withers, the agency's Wessex area director, said: "Our water supplies are lower than they normally are at this time of year and if we do have a dry winter … then the actions that the public and society take will be really important to lessen the worse possible effect." He added that if normal or above‑normal rainfall does not arrive, a drought in spring is very likely.

According to the agency's "Drought Prospects Report", the risk hinges on three winter rainfall scenarios:

• With about 100 % of average winter rainfall most of England could recover by spring 2026.
• At around 80 % rainfall, a large area from Wessex to Yorkshire could already be in drought by March.
• With only 60 % rainfall, the agency warns that all of England could enter drought status.

The agency highlights that while some recent heavy rain has fallen, the fits‑and‑starts nature of rainfall means soil and reservoirs remain low. The Met Office's outlook suggests a higher chance of drier‑than‑usual conditions from November to January.

Residents in Somerset and the wider Wessex area are urged to reduce non‑essential water use now and check for leaks. Water companies will also be preparing drought‑response measures and boosting supplies ahead of next year.

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