Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly are bracing themselves for an extended period of drought, with the Environment Agency confirming the region is in a state of prolonged dry weather. This move comes after England's warmest spring on record, followed by three major heatwaves, left the area with chronically low rainfall levels.
The designation 'prolonged dry weather' is triggered by low rainfall, reduced river flows, and high temperatures, placing immense pressure on the local environment. Environment Agency officials are gearing up to respond to potential incidents such as distressed fish and algal blooms, which are more likely under these conditions. Joanne Laeger, Environment Planning & Engagement manager at the Environment Agency, noted that this is the third area in England to reach this status this year, following parts of East Anglia and parts of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Despite an initial wet start to 2026, Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly received below-average rainfall between March and May. The early June rainstorms failed to compensate for this deficit, leaving soils drier than usual. Consequently, exceptionally low river flows are becoming more frequent, and some private water supplies – particularly those from boreholes – are reportedly struggling.
The Environment Agency is urging everyone to conserve water, stressing that increased usage reduces the amount available for the environment. Ms Laeger highlighted the region's changing climate, with wetter winters and hotter, drier summers making prolonged dry periods more common. She noted: "The climate is changing, and we're seeing a shift towards wetter winters and drier summers."
The National Drought Group, comprising representatives from the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, the National Farmers’ Union, and conservation experts, is closely monitoring the situation. The group will convene again on 20 July to assess the ongoing conditions. A national campaign, 'Let’s Save Water: Water Efficiency Campaign for England & Wales', is promoting simple water-saving methods, such as taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using a bucket instead of a hosepipe for outdoor tasks.