Heat-related water quality impacts amplified during extreme weather

With scientists warning that heatwaves could become more frequent and intense because of climate change there is greater risk to the health of our waterways.

We have just come out of record-breaking summer conditions across Europe and other parts of the world, that brought hot conditions, reduced rainfall and warm temperatures that have accelerated and lead to poor water quality. La Niña has also led to worsening droughts in the US and warmer temperatures across Europe.

And while it may be coming into winter in the northern hemisphere, it is the ideal time for water body owners and operators to plan their water quality management programs prior to next summer’s peak needs.

Our UK & European General Manager, Damian Whelan, explains more.

“The hot conditions we saw this summer have the potential to present big challenges for all water users – municipalities, regulators, farmers, industry, utilities and also for recreation and tourism.”

“When the weather is hot, particularly when it is sustained over longer periods, managing the health of our waterways becomes even more challenging and signs of nutrient pollution becomes apparent.”

“It may seem strange to be talking about this now we’re heading towards winter, but this is the ideal time to get ahead of next summer’s heat by proactively planning and preparing your water bodies now, rather than with other methods that are usually applied as a reaction to a problem.”

“While there are many complementary tools and treatments that help waterways remain healthy, a leading product like Phoslock® helps to control phosphorus pollution as a result of legacy phosphorus. This is when phosphorus has built up in water resources over years and decades, caused by entering waterways through catchment sources such as runoff from industrial, urban, agricultural activities.”

“Phoslock safely removes the phosphorus through the formation of Rhabdophane, an insoluble, natural and biologically inert mineral that forms part of the sediment profile.”

“This leads to a significant improvement in the water quality of lakes, ponds, and other waterways, and scientifically proven to be safe for aquatic biota and has no negative impact to human health.”

“Using a product like Phoslock, for mitigation or remediation efforts, is key to ensuring a safer and healthier water system. Planning for and organising options over winter is paramount.”

“The better the condition our waterways are in at the start of spring, the better they stand up to the pressure of extreme events and ever-changing environments and catchment behaviour.”

Contact the PET team for more information.