Puffin island on cusp of closure as it runs out of water
Summary
Lundy Island, known for its puffins and wildlife, is running very low on water due to a long dry period and may have to close. The island depends on rainwater and underground water sources, which are almost empty, so emergency water shipments are being brought from the mainland to support the few residents living there.Key Facts
- Lundy Island is located in the Bristol Channel off the north Devon coast.
- The island is famous for puffins and seals and attracts many birdwatchers.
- It has only 28 residents who rely entirely on rainwater and boreholes for water.
- This summer was the hottest and driest on record, causing water levels to drop drastically.
- Reservoirs fell to just 13% full, forcing emergency water deliveries from the mainland starting in August.
- Water restrictions are in place, including removing bath plugs to save water.
- The island has started using water from ponds, normally for wildlife, as a last effort to avoid closure.
- The seasonal ferry bringing water will stop later this month, making the situation even more urgent.
- Residents hope for rain to refill the reservoirs and groundwater, but it could take weeks.
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