After weeks of scorching temperatures and very little rain, more than half of England is now officially in drought. Rivers are shrinking, reservoirs are running low, and dry fields are affecting farming and wildlife. Experts say the situation developed unusually quickly because of the combination of extreme heat and a lack of rainfall. England’s Environment Agency has now declared that 51.4% of the country is officially experiencing drought.
Heat and dry weather push England into drought:
The Environment Agency, which manages England’s water resources and environment, announced that drought conditions now cover seven regions:
- East Anglia
- Thames and London
- Hertfordshire and North London
- Wessex
- West Midlands
- Devon and Cornwall
- Solent and South Downs
Experts describe this as a flash drought, which happens when drought develops rapidly because of prolonged hot weather and very little rainfall.
In July, England received only about 7% of its average monthly rainfall, making it one of the driest Julys on record in many areas. As a result, river levels have fallen, reservoirs are holding less water, soils have become extremely dry, and crops are under stress.
Drought affects much more than the weather. Farmers may struggle to grow crops, wildlife can lose important habitats, and rivers and lakes become smaller, making it harder for fish and other animals to survive. Water supplies may also come under pressure if dry conditions continue.
What is a flash drought?
A flash drought is a drought that develops much faster than a normal drought. It happens when very high temperatures, strong sunshine, and little or no rainfall quickly dry out the soil. Crops, rivers, and reservoirs can be affected within just a few weeks.
What is a drought?
A drought is a long period when an area receives much less rainfall than normal. Over time, this leads to water shortages, lower river and reservoir levels, dry soil, and problems for farming, wildlife, and communities.
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