RIVER levels in North Wales are dangerously low and could impact on wildlife, environmental experts have warned.
Across the region levels are well below average and though there is no danger of disruption to public water supplies Environment Agency Wales director Chris Mills has urged residents to reduce their water consumption.
“Most reservoirs in Wales are more than 90 per cent full at the moment so there is no problem with public water supply, however this is only half the story,” he said.
“Rivers in Wales are affected quickly by a lack of rain, and some rivers are now very low despite the recent wet weather.
“Any further dry period could begin to affect wildlife and the wider environment so we are asking people to use water wisely and to help ensure our wildlife is protected.”
Recent rainfall has only eased the situation slightly after an exceedingly dry February and March, according to the agency, which has also said rainfall for Wales in March was the fifth lowest in a hundred years and 70 per cent less than the average for the month.
There are fears that low river levels will cause problems for important species like salmon and sewin and may also intensify the effect pollution has on other fish and wildlife.
The agency’s concerns come after drought warnings across large parts of the UK.
Southeast England, Lincolnshire and East Anglia as well as areas of the Midlands are all currently experiencing drought conditions.
A Dwr Cymru (Welsh Water) spokesman said despite low river levels, their reservoirs were at levels expected for the time of year.
“In the current environmental drought conditions there is no risk to Welsh Water’s customers’ supply in the affected area,” he said. “Welsh Water’s message to customers is: ‘Use all the tap water you need, but please don’t waste it.’”