Southern Water has announced that a drought permit is no longer needed for the River Test in Southampton following significant rainfall over recent weeks.

The water company have now stopped preparations for a River Test Drought Permit.

River Test flows have remained above the ‘60-Day’ trigger level (25 days until the possible need to apply for a drought permit) for more than two months since they originally dropped in early August.

From October 1-6, the River Test received around 100mm of rain, which is 125% of the month’s long-term average and since then the month has gone on to receive between 175% and 235% of its long term average rainfall overall, with some of the higher totals falling in Hampshire.

Water Resources Policy and Regulation Manager at Southern Water, Nigel Hepworth commented:

“We’d like to thank all of our customers in Southampton and the surrounding area for being careful with their water use throughout the year.”

“As a result of their considerate water use and recent rainfall, we’ve now agreed with the Environment Agency to formally stand-down our preparations for a drought permit, as there is no risk we’ll need one this winter. As always, we will continue to monitor the situation closely.

“We’ll need to check where things are at the end of this winter and keep our customers informed.”