Summer 2025 has been a low rain fall summer. The Kennet Valley is in a ‘prolonged period of dry weather’ and as of 19 August 2025 is not yet in drought. The Swindon and Oxfordshire supply zone has had a hosepipe (temporary use) ban in place since 22nd July. This has reduced demand during peak temperatures. For information about hosepipe bans call the Thames Water Drought Line on 0800 072 1083.
Groundwater levels started from a high point in spring after effective winter recharge but by July levels measured at the Rockley borehole had fallen to below normal for the time of year, but still higher than in 2022. Most public water supply in the Kennet Valley is abstracted from the aquifer. Chalk streams rely on water from the aquifer to keep them flowing. River levels have dropped steadily across the catchment, resulting in fish becoming stranded in the winterbourne reaches of the Kennet and tributaries including the Lambourn. To report stranded fish to the Environment Agency fish rescue team call 0800 807060.
Figure: Ground water levels measured at Rockley near Marlborough (Centre for Ecology and Hydrology).