Drought Officially Declared

The entire South West has been declared a drought area by the Environment Agency.

In 2010 we had 20% less rainfall than the average. Last year we had 16% less than we'd normally expect.

Water levels have fallen to such a low level that it's taking its toll on agriculture and wildlife.

The Environment Agency has declared official drought zones for a further 17 English counties today including Cornwall, Dorset, Devon, and Somerset. Find out about the worst national water shortage since 1976.

The Environment Agency has declared official drought zones in a further 17 English counties and warned the shortages could last until Christmas or beyond. It is the worst national water shortage since 1976. Read ITV News' latest report here

David Elliott from Wessex Water explains the measures being taken to ensure water supplies are not affected as the Environment Agency officially declares a drought.

Drought has been declared in the West following months of low rainfall. The Environment Agency says the last 18 months have been the second driest on record. It's concerned the dry weather will affect wildlife and wetland habitats but says public water supplies should remain unaffected.