The Collie River is feeling the effects of climate change after the South West recorded its driest winter since 2014.
The Bureau of Meteorology rated this year’s winter period was the hottest on record in WA and the 11th driest since 1900, which has increased the strain on the South West’s rivers.
The majority of the rivers in the South West, including the Collie River, recorded below average flows for the period when compared to data from the last 40 years, according to the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.
Water Minister Dave Kelly said the results are worrying and that everyone needs to be wary of their water use.
“River flows are one of the best indicators for measuring the effects of reduced rainfall,” he said.
“What this year shows is there is no escaping the impact of climate change, which is not only reducing flow to our water supply dams but to our rivers as well.
“While water is key to economic growth in WA, our natural environment also depends on it, so we need to balance its use carefully.
“The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation carefully monitors rainfall levels and streamflow to manage the use of our precious water resources.
“These results are also a reminder that Western Australians can’t be complacent when it comes to our water use and that we all have a role to play in securing WA’s water supplies for the future.”
