Central Region
*The long term average (LTA) has been calculated statistically, using the long term data record for this hydrograph. The respective drought zones are used as operational triggers and have been derived using the LTA.
Rainfall in our Central region was below average in December at 70% of the Long Term Average (LTA). Over the last three months (October to December inclusive), our Central region has received below average rainfall (77% of the LTA) but equal to average effective precipitation (100% of the LTA), largely due to the very wet September that resulted in wetter soils and allowed more recharge. Soils however remain wetter than average (Soil Moisture Deficit (SMD) is lower than the LTA), meaning any forthcoming rainfall is likely to provide more groundwater recharge than average.
Groundwater levels started to increase in September and remain well above average for the time of year due to the above average rainfall during the last recharge period and early start to the recharge season and are now increasing again after plateauing. Groundwater levels are likely to remain above average over the next six months if rainfall is greater than 60% of the LTA. As a result of the above average levels, groundwater is likely to continue providing support to chalk stream flows next spring/summer. Groundwater levels are currently in a higher position than the above average conditions experienced in 2000-01, 2013-14 and 2020-21 at the end of December.
Please refer to our Drought Plan for further information about droughts and how we manage them.