Scotland's rivers under 'record pressure' as significant water scarcity hits 17 areas

Scotland’s rivers are under “record pressure” according to the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), with signifcant water scarcity in 17 areas.

More than 270 licence restrictions have been implemented this year to manage water usage, as prolonged dry conditions continue across the east of the country.

17 areas are now at significant scarcity – the highest number since the current version of the National Water Scarcity Plan was introduced.

In the Lower Spey, the 2025 season has seen the highest number of low-flow days in a 70-year record.

SEPA say more areas could reach significant scarcity in the coming days.

In the North East,  Deveron, Ythan, Upper and Lower Don, Lower Dee and Water of Feugh are at significant scarcity.

Lower Spey, River Findhorn, Findhorn East, River Avon, and from Friday the River Lossie are also affected by restrictions.

Helmsdale, Shin, Conon, Inverness (East) in the Highlands are affected, as well as  East Neuk of Fife, Leven, Lunan Water, North Fife, and Tyne in the East.

Upper Tweed, Mid-Tweed & Lauderdale are also under significant scarcity. The River Lossie will reach significant scarcity on Friday.

Unless there is sustained rainfall over the coming days the Brodie, River Helmsdale, Cromarty Firth (North), Inverness (East), River Nairn, Kyle of Sutherland and River Carron areas are due to go to the level next week.

While some rain is forecast, it is not yet clear whether this will be enough to see rivers recover enough to lift restrictions. SEPA will monitor the situation closely.

Below-average rainfall

August brought below-average rainfall across the east of Scotland, with some areas receiving less than a third of the normal amount.

David Harley, SEPA’s head of Water and Planning, said: “With 17 catchments now at Significant Scarcity, and more abstraction licences restricted than ever before, Scotland’s rivers are under record pressure.

“Restrictions are always a last resort, but they are essential to protect the environment and all water users.

“The National Water Scarcity Plan sets out an approach which ensures the correct balance between protecting the environment and providing water for human and economic activity.

“It has clear thresholds for when restrictions are imposed and lifted, based on detailed monitoring of river levels underpinned by evidence and expertise in relation to the impact of extended low flows on river ecology.

“This year has been highly unusual – we’ve not seen water scarcity conditions persist for this length of time before.

“It underlines the importance of learning from these events and planning for how Scotland uses and protects its precious water resources in the face of climate change.”