Water storage deficits across England and Wales may persist for months

The short version

• The UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology reports widespread water storage deficits across England and Wales that are likely to continue over the next six months.[The Guardian]
• Soils in western Scotland remain slightly wetter than normal for this time of year.[The Guardian]
• Severe soil drying in clay-heavy regions poses structural risks to buildings, which can trigger an increase in insurance subsidence claims.[The Guardian]

Key facts

• The UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology found water storage deficits across broad sections of England and Wales.[The Guardian]
• The UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology projects that these water deficits will likely persist for the next six months.[The Guardian]
• Western Scotland's soils are marginally wetter than usual for this time of year.[The Guardian]
• Extreme dry conditions can cause clay ground to contract and shift, prompting a rise in building subsidence claims.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Weatherwatch: soil moisture deficit – how dry are the UK’s thirsty soils?The Guardian - Science