Fires and Low Rivers: How Dry July Hurt Sussex Ecosystems

Fires and low rivers: How dry July hurt local ecosystems across Sussex

The Ouse & Adur Rivers Trust has issued an urgent warning regarding the ecological health of Sussex waterways following a period of exceptionally dry weather. Environmental experts have highlighted that the lack of rainfall throughout July has left river habitats in a “suffering” state, with significant concerns raised for the long-term survival of local fish and invertebrate populations.

According to climate data from the Met Office, rainfall across South East England during July was significantly below the long-term average. This prolonged dry spell has caused water levels in the River Ouse and River Adur catchments to plummet, which in turn has direct consequences for the temperature and chemistry of the water.

Wildfire Risks and Ground Fires

The dry conditions have extended beyond the riverbanks, increasing the vulnerability of the Sussex countryside to wildfires. West Sussex and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Services have recently attended several ground fires exacerbated by parched vegetation. Notable incidents include a significant blaze at Ashdown Forest and smaller grass fires near Lancing Hill and the South Downs. Fire officials are urging residents to avoid using disposable barbecues in open spaces and to ensure all cigarettes are fully extinguished.

Threats to Aquatic Wildlife

The Trust warns that low water levels have led to a dangerous increase in water temperatures. When river volumes decrease, the water heats up more rapidly under the sun, which significantly reduces the amount of dissolved oxygen available. This environment is particularly hostile to fish and invertebrates, which can struggle to survive when oxygen levels fall below critical thresholds.

Environmental experts noted that these conditions do not only affect the creatures living within the water but also the wider food chain throughout the South Downs. The technical briefing from the Ouse & Adur Rivers Trust suggests that without sustained rainfall, the pressure on these delicate ecosystems will continue to mount.

Water Restrictions and Supply

As of late July, South East Water has confirmed that there are currently no active hosepipe bans (Temporary Use Bans) in effect for the Sussex region. However, the company is closely monitoring reservoir levels and has moved to a “high demand” alert phase. Residents are encouraged to use water wisely to prevent the implementation of formal restrictions if the dry weather persists into August.

Practical Information for Residents

Reporting Distressed Wildlife:
If you observe fish gasping for air at the surface, dead fish, or significant drying of riverbeds, contact the Environment Agency’s 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60. Do not attempt to move fish yourself, as this can spread disease and cause further stress to the animals.

Volunteer Opportunities:
The Ouse & Adur Rivers Trust (OART) is seeking volunteers for its upcoming autumn habitat restoration projects and “Riverfly” monitoring programs. These roles involve:

• Riverfly Monitoring: Collecting data on aquatic invertebrates to assess water quality.
• Task Force Days: Participating in bank stabilization and invasive species removal (scheduled for late August and September).

Interested residents can sign up for the volunteer mailing list via the Ouse & Adur Rivers Trust website.

Peter King, representing the Trust, emphasized the importance of community vigilance: “While some species can tolerate short-term fluctuations, the cumulative effect of a dry July followed by high summer temperatures creates a high-risk environment for local biodiversity. We rely on the public to be our eyes and ears on the ground.”