The UK’s current drought situation is now defined as a “nationally significant incident” which has prompted the convening of the National Drought Group. MeasuresComprised of members from the Met Office and government, key stakeholders from major water companies, the National Farmers’ Union and Canal & River Trust, as well as other water sector representatives, the National Drought Group met to outline measures its members are taking to help with the current levels of water shortfall. Southern Water has attached 24,000 acoustic sensors to the 15,500km of their water network to help detect leaks. Aside from leaks, the UK Health Security Agency is currently working with the National Drought Group to update its public health impacts of drought guidanceIn order to restrict periods of drought causing issues with long term water supply in the UK, members of the National Drought Group are also just beginning a programme of reservoir building. Environment Agency director of water and National Drought Group chair Helen Wakeham said: “The current situation is nationally significant, and we are calling on everyone to play their part and help reduce the pressure on our water environment.