Official drought conditions have expanded across all of Wales and nearly half of England, affecting approximately 31 million residents.
The declaration follows intense summer heatwaves and historically low rainfall, as confirmed by government environmental agencies on July 31, 2026.
Natural Resources Wales verified that the entire country has entered official drought status due to severely depleted precipitation levels.
Meanwhile, the Environment Agency reported that around 28 million people in central, eastern, and southern England are experiencing similar conditions after the driest July on record.
Met Office data indicates England received roughly seven percent of its typical monthly rainfall in July, dropping to just one percent in southern regions.
Wales recorded about eight percent of its long-term monthly average rainfall.
These conditions mark the second consecutive year of summer drought across parts of the United Kingdom despite substantial winter precipitation.
Environmental officials emphasized that the current heatwave is straining public infrastructure, ecosystems, and agricultural output.
Water storage levels remain under severe pressure as dry conditions fuel increased risks of agricultural loss and wildfires.
Officials Urge Water Conservation
Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency and chair of the National Drought Group, highlighted the severity of the compounding dry seasons.
"The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it," said Wakeham.
"A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife and the economy.
We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated during the hot weather but every drop we can save is a drop more for nature and agriculture."
Government ministers noted that ongoing structural investments are underway to mitigate climate-induced water shortages.
These include funding for nine new reservoirs and stricter mandates on utility companies to reduce pipeline leakage.
Water minister Emma Hardy outlined the government's strategic response to the shifting weather patterns.
"Our climate is changing, droughts are becoming increasingly common, and we need to be prepared for this new normal," said Hardy.
"We’re delivering long-term change in the water industry and driving record investments in infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs.
We expect water companies to follow their drought plans, to go further and faster to reduce leaks, and to ensure supplies are not disrupted even in the driest of weather."
In England, official drought declarations cover East Anglia, Hertfordshire, London, the Thames Valley, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Devon, Cornwall, the West Midlands, and the Wessex region.
Approximately one-third of England remains in prolonged dry status, with normal conditions persisting only in the North East.
