The National Drought Group (NDG) is expected to convene this afternoon to declare that additional parts of England are officially in drought. This comes as some areas of the UK are heading into what could be the fifth heatwave of the year.
Currently, all of Wales and over half of England are already experiencing drought conditions, following a prolonged period of dry, hot weather throughout the summer. The NDG, which includes representatives from the Met Office, government, regulators, and water companies, reviews drought impacts and assists in developing mitigation strategies.
Forecasters indicate that temperatures could reach 36C (97F) or higher this week, with Monday expected to be slightly cooler before temperatures increase again on Tuesday. The ongoing dry conditions have led to millions of people being placed under temporary hosepipe bans, particularly in the south and south-east, due to significantly depleted water supplies.