WALKERS and nature lovers have been asked to keep a careful eye on fish struggling to survive in recent high temperatures.

The Environment Agency (EA) has issued a warning after incidents of fish in distress have been noted in rivers and fisheries across Lancashire.

High temperatures and thunderstorms can mean the oxygen levels across the region’s watercourses can change dramatically.

The agency is anticipating problems in coming weeks and is appealing to people to report issues and they will address problems by treating the water where necessary.

Nick Mercer, Fisheries and Biodiversity officer at the Environment Agency, said: “Long periods of hot weather with low rainfall can see significant changes in water conditions that can lead to fish becoming distressed.

“It is important that we know about the problems as soon as they occur.

“Our officers carry out routine patrols, but the public provide a vital service as the eyes and ears of the environment when they spot an environmental incident.”

Anyone who reports problems to the EA will be able to tweet the agency online or call a special incident hotline.

The EA anticipate that in some cases they will need to carry out hydrogen peroxide dosing to increase oxygen levels in the water.

With thunderstorms forecast in some parts of the country over the next few days, a sudden change in weather could also adversely affect fish stocks and fisheries.

Fishery owners are also being warned to take action now to minimise the risks to fish.

The EA said thunderstorms can cause rapid pressure changes and this results in the water not being able to hold as much oxygen as usual, causing fish to suffer.

Rapid changes in water conditions also mean there is little time for fish to acclimatise. Still waters, like ponds, are said to be particularly vulnerable in this situation.

Fishery owners are advised to check stock early in the morning when dissolved oxygen levels are at their lowest and look for any signs of fish in distress. They should also check fish have access to water pumps, aeration equipment and generators if needed.

Anyone who see signs of fish in distress, such as fish gasping for air can report it to the experts on the incident hotline on 0800 807060 or tweet @NWfishEA.