Scotland's driest year since 1964 prompts urgent water appeal

Scotland is facing its most severe drought since 1964, leading the water company, Scottish Water, to appeal to residents to conserve water.

According to Sky News, recommendations include reducing time spent in the shower and using watering cans instead of hoses to water gardens.

In some regions of Scotland on Tuesday, temperatures exceeded 77 degrees Fahrenheit, marking the hottest day of the year. Scottish Water reports that from January to April, only 59% of the long-term average rainfall was recorded, making this the driest start to the year in 60 years. The forecast for May also does not predict significant rainfall until 22nd May.

Since mid-April, Scottish Water has been pumping an additional 33 million gallons of water daily into the water supply network. The average water usage in Scotland is 39 gallons per person per day, which is higher than in England and Wales, where it is 30 gallons. The water level in Scottish reservoirs is currently at 81%, which is 10% below the average for this time of year.

Scottish Water recommends that the people of Scotland:

      
• take shorter showers,
• turn off taps while brushing teeth,
• use washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded,
• wash cars with a bucket and sponge instead of a hose.

In some regions, water is delivered by tankers to supplement normal supplies.

Climate change is increasingly impacting Scotland, and one of its effects is the threat to Scottish whisky production. Droughts and changes in rainfall could permanently alter this cherished beverage.

Whisky production relies on three key ingredients: water, barley, and yeast. Climate changes are affecting the availability and quality of these raw materials. Experts from University College London warn that changes in temperature and rainfall could impact the taste and quality of distilled alcohol.