Water scarcity is usually top of mind during scorching hot and dry weather, but is it a worry when the weather is wet and cool? This is a crucial question that deserves serious consideration.
We posed this question to two experts from Artesia, Rob Lawson and Cristina Munilla, and here’s what they had to say.
A Wet Climate Doesn’t Guarantee Abundant Water
Despite a generally wet climate, water scarcity can be a significant challenge in the UK. The unique geography and design of our water systems play a vital role in how we manage water. Most of our systems, even those relying on natural groundwater, depend on rainfall during the autumn and winter months to reach their full capacity. This stored water is usually enough to keep the taps flowing during the summer when demand increases.
However, the unpredictability of rainfall distribution and seasonal changes mean that we can’t be complacent, even in wetter years. A dry autumn or winter could significantly impact water resources just as warmer, drier months approach. Similarly, a hot, dry summer might require all the water we can gather. This constant uncertainty underscores the ever-present risk of water scarcity in the UK.
The Challenges of Dense Populations
Adding to the complexity, water scarcity can quickly become a problem in densely populated areas. This is not just about the availability of water but also about the capacity of our infrastructure to meet peak demand. A short period of hot, dry conditions can lead to a surge in demand, and even if enough water is available, our infrastructure may not be able to handle the rapid increase. This means water scarcity can arise not from a lack of water but from the limitations of the systems designed to deliver it.
A Call to Action: Building Water Resilience
The situation in the UK can change dramatically from year to year, and climate change is only intensifying this challenge. As a society, we need to embrace sustainable water management year-round, regardless of the weather. This means promoting public awareness of water scarcity, fostering a shift in water use habits, and making strategic investments in infrastructure and water storage. These measures are crucial for building a water-resilient society.
Meet the Experts
If you want to learn more about water scarcity and how Artesia can support your efforts, please get in touch via https://artesia-consulting.co.uk/contact-us/.
Rob Lawson, a Director at Artesia and chair of the CIWEM Water Resources Technical Panel, boasts over 30 years of experience in the water industry. His extensive expertise in water scarcity includes work for Ofwat, DEFRA, The EA, and Water Companies, focusing on the impact of water scarcity on water resources and its long-term implications for demand.
Cristina Munilla, a Senior Data Scientist and Research and Innovation Lead at Artesia, has been involved in various water scarcity projects, often leading the technical delivery. Her work includes analyzing water demand under extreme weather conditions and assessing the impact of water conservation campaigns and temporary use bans on water resources.
