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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 February at 81% of the Long Term Average (LTA). Over the last three months (December to February inclusive), our Central region has received below average rainfall (87% of the LTA) and slightly below average effective precipitation (95% of the LTA). Soil Moisture Deficit (SMD) however remains below average levels for the time of year, 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 this recharge season, and continue to recover at a slower rate than the LTA. 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 2013-14 and 2020-21 but in a lower position than 2000-01 at the end of February.
Please refer to our Drought Plan for further information about droughts and how we manage them.