Wetter Winter and Warmer Summer Affect Marine Life in South West
The South West region is experiencing significant environmental changes due to wetter winters and warmer summers, impacting marine life. According to the BBC, the presence of sewage in rivers and bathing waters remains a concern, although water quality has improved over the past decade. The region's beaches, particularly in Devon and Cornwall, are mostly meeting high standards for bathing water quality. However, heavy rainfall events can lead to increased bacterial counts, including E. coli, which poses risks to human health. The environmental impact is closely tied to seasonal weather patterns, with persistent rainfall potentially leading to harmful algal blooms, while dry and hot conditions can also affect coastal ecosystems. Nutrient-rich sediments from farm run-off and sewage spills contribute to algal growth, which can be toxic to marine life. 
