The short version
- Dead fish were found washed up along the riverbank after a period of extreme heat.
- The Environment Agency cited reduced dissolved oxygen as the primary cause of mortality.
- Local officials attribute the incident to broader climate change effects on water systems.
Hundreds of fish have died in the River Wensum in Norwich, an event linked to recent extreme weather conditions. Residents and wild swimmers discovered dead pike, carp, roach, eel, rudd, and dace washed up on Saturday. The Environment Agency determined that high temperatures significantly reduced dissolved oxygen levels in the water, creating lethal conditions for aquatic life.
The incident was exacerbated by heavy rainfall on Thursday, which likely flushed contamination from surface water drainage systems into the river. This runoff coincided with low river flows and persistent heat, compounding the stress on the ecosystem. Local campaigner Sarah Eglington described the scene as heartbreaking, noting that the river appeared unrecognizable compared to just days prior.
Lucy Galvin, leader of Norwich City Council, stated that the event highlights the catastrophic effects of climate change. The River Wensum is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its rich invertebrate fauna and chalk river habitat. Authorities are continuing to monitor water quality and collaborate with partner organizations to assess the long-term impact on this protected environment.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Science & Environment↗Hundreds of dead fish in river linked to heatwave
