THE South West has been moved into official drought status.

The Environment Agency announced this morning, April 16, a further 17 counties were now in drought status following two dry winters.

Areas now affected include South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, Bristol, Somerset, most of Wiltshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

According to the Environment Agency public water supplies in these counties are unlikely to be affected but households and business are being asked to be careful and use water wisely.

The Environment Agency has said the the lack of rain is taking its toll on the environment and farmers – causing problems for wildlife, wetlands and crop production.

Experts have said they are now hoping for a steady rainy winter in 2012/13 to restore rivers and groundwaters, but the Environment Agency is working with the water industry to put plans in place now to deal with the prospect of a third dry winter.

Trevor Bishop, head of water resources at the Environment Agency, said: "A longer term drought, lasting until Christmas and perhaps beyond, now looks more likely – and we are working with businesses, farmers and water companies to plan ahead to meet the challenges of a continued drought.

"While we’ve had some welcome rain recently, the problem has not gone away, and we would urge everyone – right across the country – to use water wisely now, which will help to prevent more serious impacts next year."