The Environment Agency (EA) has declared a drought in parts of England today, 29 July 2026. This declaration reflects the cumulative effects of months of below-average rainfall, rather than solely recent hot weather, according to Dr Jess Neumann from the University of Reading.
Scientists commenting on the declaration highlighted that drought refers to a lack of rainfall, low soil moisture impacting crops, and effects on the wider water environment, including low river flows and falling reservoir levels. Professor Hayley J. Fowler of Newcastle University stated that Britain is entering an era of water extremes, with more floods in winter and more droughts in summer.
Experts attribute the increasing drought risk to hotter temperatures from a warming climate, rising water demand, ageing infrastructure, and water loss through leaks. Professor David M. Hannah from the University of Birmingham emphasised the urgent need for both immediate water-saving measures and long-term investment in climate resilience.
The Climate Change Committee forecasts that England alone could face a public water supply shortfall of approximately five billion litres per day by 2055. Professor Richard Allan of the University of Reading noted that as the climate warms, the atmosphere's thirst for water increases, making drought onset more rapid and severe.