Scotland has introduced water restrictions for the first time due to a prolonged dry spell that has pushed river levels to critical lows.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) announced restrictions in Ythan (Aberdeenshire) and North Fife after both regions reached significant scarcity status which is the highest level of alert. This follows over 30 days of very low water levels in local rivers.
The measures limit water abstraction and the process of taking water from natural sources and primarily affecting agricultural and industrial users. Sepa stated the restrictions are temporary and will be lifted once conditions improve.
The agency emphasized the need to protect the environment, wildlife, and local communities that depend on these water sources.
The head of environmental performance, Chris Dailly, Sepa’s said “the water environment in parts of Scotland is clearly under stress. We’ve been working closely with licence holders throughout the summer to prepare for this.”
So far, 2025 has brought unusually dry conditions, especially along Scotland’s east coast. Each month this year has seen below-average rainfall, and this spring was the driest since 1964.
Scottish Water has not issued a hosepipe ban but is urging residents to conserve water at home by taking shorter showers and avoiding unnecessary outdoor use.
Average reservoir levels in eastern Scotland were at just 56% last week, 24% below the seasonal average of 81%.
The western areas reported healthier levels at 76%, though still 5% below average. Across Scotland, reservoir levels were 14% below the norm.
Several other areas, including the Deveron, Don, and Esk in Angus, are at moderate scarcity, with more regions at risk of moving to the highest alert if dry conditions continue.
Dr. Rebecca Wade, an environmental science lecturer at Abertay University, said changing climate patterns are contributing to the crisis, “We’re seeing less overall water and different rainfall patterns. Short, intense storms may cause flooding but don’t replenish groundwater or reservoirs adequately.”
However, authorities are urging water users to plan ahead, reduce usage, and follow existing licence conditions to help manage the ongoing drought.
