Key Facts

• The UK has had prolonged hot weather and very little rain this summer.
• Satellite data shows large areas of vegetation turning brown, indicating stress in places like Conwy, Flintshire, Denbighshire, and Merseyside.
• Some areas, especially uplands in Scotland and Wales, have remained greener and less affected.
• Plants may recover after rain returns if their roots remain healthy, but long dry periods lower groundwater levels affecting deep-rooted plants.
• Dry, hard ground can cause more flooding when rain finally falls because water runs off instead of soaking in.
• The drought started quickly after a wet early spring and has increased water demand for farms, industry, and homes.
• Experts warn that crop yields may drop, raising food prices and reducing British produce in supermarkets.
• The drought also puts wildlife at risk, as many UK plants and animals are not used to long dry spells.