Scotland's rivers and reservoirs could be at risk of water scarcity as temperatures continue to soar across the country and Scots make greater use of water than usual to keep cool.
Environment bods at SEPA have issued a warning for 11 areas in the country that could be at risk. Edinburgh Live reports that the Firth of Forth is currently judged to be at a "moderate" rate of scarcity. The environment body warned last week that conditions were unlikely to improve as dry weather continues, leading to low river and groundwater levels.
While the situation is being closely monitored as always, the impending heatwave is set to continue with temperatures nearing 30c on Tuesday, July 19. Last week, similar temperatures were recorded in Edinburgh and the Lothians, as well as an amber weather warning for extreme heat levels, was issued for parts of Midlothian and the Borders for next week.
Elsewhere, the River Tay, River Ythan and River Dee are also at moderate scarcity - the second highest level. The Clyde, Earl and Spey catchments are on "alert", meaning they could be at risk of scarcity. Parts of the Highlands and highland Perthshire are in a state of "early warning", the first stage of escalation.
SEPA says it is coordinating steps to manage water resources in line with Scotland's National Water Scarcity Plan. The plan warns that businesses using natural water sources should only do so when absolutely necessary, stagger their operations, reduce volumes and durations or suspend abstractions - removing water from rivers - altogether.
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In early warning areas, the advice is for businesses to consider their upcoming water requirements and to check equipment for any leaks. If the water scarcity risk level reaches significant, then SEPA will consider whether restrictions on abstractions will be required to protect the water environment.
Head of water and planning at SEPA, Nathan Critchlow-Watton, said: "The situation continues to deteriorate in the east of the country, with most areas now in alert or moderate scarcity level. We're also now seeing conditions worsen in the south-west and businesses that rely on water in this part of the country should also be thinking about how to be more efficient.
"Water scarcity is a very real threat as a result of climate change, and one which affects multiple industries across Scotland including agriculture, whisky production, golf and hydropower. We continue to support businesses across sectors to plan for and manage these conditions now and in the future.
"However, where businesses deliberately fail to follow abstraction licenses set out by SEPA, we will take appropriate enforcement action to protect the environment."
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