The driest January for almost a decade is not causing any serious water shortage problems in the South West, according to the Environment Agency.

The South East and central southern England had already suffered the fourth driest year on record last year and the driest year since 1973. The driest counties, Hampshire, Sussex, Surrey, Middlesex and Kent, have received only 70% of normal rainfall in the past 15 months.

Some parts of southern England and Wales had less than half of their average rainfall in January.

But the South West is not facing the same difficulties.

"There is a possibility of serious drought across the South East but in the South West we are not currently experiencing the same sort of problems," said Lynsay McLean, from the Environment Agency.

"Reservoirs and groundwater levels are within normal ranges and there is no cause for concern at this stage."

Total reservoir storage is 74.9% compared to 79% at this time last year, and river levels reflect the recent dry weather.

"There is a risk of shortages should this period of low rainfall extend through the summer and into early spring. It should be remembered that drought is a natural phenomenon and we will continue to monitor levels, keep people informed and where appropriate act to mitigate the impact of drought," McLean added.

River and groundwater levels are low because of the lack of rainfall but water supplies are unaffected.

However, with soils now very dry, a dry February and March could see significant environmental stress including poor water quality, less oxygen in the water, fish mortality and algal blooms.

Rainfall totals for January to date range from 19.8% in Newton Poppleford to 51.3% in Penryn, with total reservoir storage at 74% compared to 79% at this time last year. For example, Colliford reservoir is 61% full, Roadford stands at 69% full and Wimbleball at 81%.