Major drought update issued as England facing ‘nationally significant’ threat

England is facing a “nationally significant” water shortfall because of a lack of rain, experts have warned. Five areas are officially in drought, with six more experiencing prolonged dry weather following the driest six months to July since 1976.

Helen Wakeham, the Environment Agency’s director of water, said: “The current situation is nationally significant, and we are calling on everyone to play their part and help reduce the pressure on our water environment. Water companies must continue to quickly fix leaks and lead the way in saving water. We know the challenges farmers are facing and will continue to work with them, other land users, and businesses to ensure everyone acts sustainably.

“We are grateful to the public for following the restrictions, where in place, to conserve water in these dry conditions. Simple, everyday choices – such as turning off a tap or deleting old emails – also really helps the collective effort to reduce demand and help preserve the health of our rivers and wildlife.”

Hosepipe bans have been introduced across wide parts of England as Britons battle with consecutive heatwaves this summer and temperatures surpassing 30C.

The UK is set to be hit by the fourth heatwave of the year over the coming days, with temperatures forecast to reach highs of 34C in the south.

Dr Will Lang, chief Meteorologist at the Met Office said: “This week is starting off warmer than of late across England and Wales with temperatures getting towards the mid-30s celsius for some in the south.

“While conditions remain mostly settled across the south the picture is more unsettled further northwest, with rain or showers at times.

“As we move into the second half of August there are indications of high pressure building and therefore largely settled conditions overall. Although dry weather is more likely, rain, showers or thunderstorms cannot be ruled out.”

Farmers and growers are continuing to battle dry conditions, the National Farmers Union warned.

Its vice-president Rachel Hallos said: “Some farms are reporting significant drop in yields which is financially devastating for the farm business and could have impacts for the UK’s overall harvest.

“Farming is a long-term industry and there is growing concern about the months ahead. Minimal grass growth means many livestock farmers are already tapping into winter feed stocks, raising the risk of higher production costs later in the year.

“Access to clean, reliable water is essential for food production. What’s worked well during this drought has been early, coordinated communication with stakeholders around licence restrictions and drought permits and orders and it’s crucial this continues.

“To avoid the swing between extreme drought and flooding and to secure water supplies for food production, we urgently need investment in water infrastructure and a more effective planning system.”