The declaration highlights the impact of a rapid dry period that followed a wet winter. According to the Environment Agency, England has entered a “flash drought”, where conditions have developed quickly because of dry spring and summer weather combined with repeated heatwaves.
Seven Areas Placed under Official Drought Status after Months of Dry Weather
The Environment Agency confirmed that parts of central, eastern and southern England are officially experiencing drought conditions. The affected areas include East Anglia, Hertfordshire, London, Thames Valley, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Devon and Cornwall, West Midlands, and Wessex, which covers Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.
Almost a third of England is also classified as being in “prolonged dry weather” status, including areas of the South East, Midlands and North West. According to the Environment Agency, only the North East and Yorkshire are still experiencing “normal” conditions for the time of year.
Rainfall levels have been particularly low during July. England has received only 7% of its expected rainfall for the month, while southern England has recorded just 1%, according to figures reported by the agency. The conditions have placed pressure on rivers, agriculture and the natural environment.
The drought declaration follows several periods of extreme heat. Record-breaking heatwaves affected the UK in May and June, followed by another heatwave earlier in July. The Met Office confirmed a new June temperature record of 38C at Lingwood in Norfolk, replacing the previous provisional figure of 37.7C.
Officials Warn of Continued Pressure on Water Resources and the Environment
The current drought is the second consecutive summer drought to affect parts of England. According to the Environment Agency, winter rainfall helped replenish reservoirs and groundwater, allowing the country to pass through a dry spring without major impacts before conditions worsened during the summer.
Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency and chairwoman of the National Drought Group, said: “The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it.”
She added that a second consecutive summer drought could have long-lasting effects on the environment, wildlife and the economy. The agency has encouraged people to use water carefully during the hot weather, noting that saved water can support nature and agriculture.
Water minister Emma Hardy said the UK needs to prepare for a changing climate, with droughts becoming more common. She said the government is supporting changes in the water industry, including investment in infrastructure and nine new reservoirs.
The drought has already contributed to restrictions for millions of people, including hosepipe bans in some areas, while dry conditions have also contributed to widespread wildfires. The UK is expected to see temperatures fall later this week, with some rainfall forecast, though the affected areas remain under close monitoring.
