Not enough rain (drought)

Hot thermometerWe are in a drought in West Sussex, we all need to do our bit to use water wisely.

For more ideas about how you can save water please see attached leaflet under 'Related documents'.

You can also find out more from the WSCC website.

A drought is a long period of unusually low rainfall resulting in possible water shortages. It can be short and intense (e.g. a hot dry summer) or develop over a longer time (e.g. a dry summer followed by a dry winter and another dry summer).

What you can do to help yourself

Using water sensibly

It’s important to use water sensibly so that there’s enough water for us all to use. Using water, especially hot water, also uses energy and increases emissions of greenhouse gases contributing to climate change. During a drought situation it's even more important to make sure that water is used efficiently and not wasted. For tips on saving water in your home and garden, please read:

Gardening

In hot and dry weather, water used outdoors can amount to 50 per cent of total UK usage. It is still possible, however, to have a beautiful and productive garden using less water. Find out what you can do to make the most of rainwater, and reduce the amount of mains water you use: