England has recorded its wettest week for two years, but the recent rainfall has not been sufficient to end drought conditions across much of the country. Reservoir levels remain very low despite rainfall being above the average for October.
The rain represents a notable change after a prolonged period of dry conditions, but its impact on water supplies has so far been limited. Reservoirs across England have not recovered enough to move the country out of drought, leaving much of the country still affected.
The latest situation underlines the difference between short-term rainfall and the sustained improvement needed to restore depleted water resources. Although the wet weather has provided some relief, drought conditions remain in place and reservoir levels continue to be a concern.
Further rainfall will be needed before the situation can improve significantly. The latest assessment is that England remains in drought despite the exceptionally wet week.