The Environment Agency has declared that more than half of England is now in drought after a period of low rainfall combined with sustained high temperatures. The heat has increased evaporation and quickly drained moisture from soils, plants and rivers, producing what the agency calls a “flash drought” — a drought that develops rapidly rather than over many months or years.
This declaration marks the third drought to affect England in five years, following events in 2022 and 2025. Scientists warn that while droughts are natural phenomena, climate change is amplifying the risk by pushing summer temperatures higher and drying soils out faster. Researchers have also pointed to long-term underinvestment in water infrastructure as a contributing factor.
The Environment Agency has previously warned that, without urgent action, public water supplies in England could face a shortfall of around 5 billion litres per day by mid-century. Professor Hayley Fowler of Newcastle University said the current situation is not simply about a lack of rain; hotter conditions, growing water demand, aging networks and persistent leaks are all making the problem worse.
The government has pledged improvements to the water industry, and companies have announced investment plans, but those measures have been accompanied by rising household water bills.
The drought is already having visible environmental and economic impacts. Low river flows are preventing Atlantic salmon from moving upstream, and farmers are reporting crop and livestock stress. Paul Tompkins, deputy president of the National Farmers’ Union of England and Wales, warned that farmers are witnessing “climate change in action,” with more extreme conditions making food production harder, riskier and more expensive — a concern for the country’s food security.
Some parts of the country are now experiencing their fourth heatwave of the year. Amber and yellow heat-health alerts are in place for portions of the UK, with forecasters warning temperatures could reach about 35°C in parts of south-east England on Wednesday. The hot, dry weather has also raised the threat of wildfires: the National Fire Chiefs Council says wildfire risk remains elevated and more than 200 wildfire incidents have been reported across England and Wales in the last two weeks.
Separately, the Met Office has revised upward the June temperature record set last month. The previously reported 37.7°C at Lingwood, Norfolk on 26 June 2026 has been updated to 38.0°C, surpassing the previous June high of 35.6°C.
Additional reporting by Jess Carr.