Is UK facing drought for second summer in a row?
Summary
The UK has experienced a very dry and hot summer with three heatwaves and little rain, especially in eastern regions. While drought developed more slowly than last year due to wet autumn and winter, many areas face water shortages and hosepipe bans as river levels drop and farmers cope with dry conditions.Key Facts
- Summer rainfall across the UK has been below average, with eastern and north-eastern England receiving just 26% of expected rain by mid-July.
- Central England had its longest dry spell since 1995, with 33 consecutive dry days recorded in Surrey.
- Last summer’s drought officially ended only four months ago, but dry conditions have returned more slowly this year.
- Heavy autumn and winter rains helped refill water sources, delaying a severe drought so far.
- Dry areas include England, Wales, and eastern Scotland; northern and western Scotland saw more rain than average.
- Hosepipe bans are in place for millions of people in England due to water shortages.
- Farmers are harvesting early and working hard to keep crops and livestock healthy during the dry weather.
- Weather forecasts predict little rain for much of the UK in the coming week, with some rain possible mainly in northern and western regions.
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