Wildlife experts fear fish deaths could become more common as climate change and pollution place increasing pressure on the River Wensum.
Wildlife experts have warned that large-scale fish deaths could become more common unless action is taken to improve the health of Norfolk's River Wensum.
The warning follows the recent death of thousands of fish in the river through Norwich, one of the most significant incidents of its kind in recent years.
The Environment Agency believes a combination of prolonged hot, dry weather and heavy rainfall created the conditions for the incident. Officials say low river levels and high temperatures reduced oxygen levels in the water before rain washed contaminants from roads and drains into the already stressed river.
Norfolk Wildlife Trust says climate change is increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, leaving rivers more vulnerable to pollution and sudden changes in water quality. Conservationists warn that longer dry spells followed by intense downpours are likely to place even greater pressure on fragile freshwater ecosystems in the future.
The River Wensum is one of England's internationally important chalk streams and supports a wide variety of fish, plants and wildlife. Experts say protecting water quality and maintaining healthy river flows will be vital if similar incidents are to be prevented.
The Environment Agency continues to monitor conditions while clean-up work is carried out, with investigations into the incident remaining ongoing.
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