July set to be driest on record for England and Wales after relentless heatwaves
Climate scientist urges better planning as southern England had just 1% of long-term average rainfall last monthHalf of England and the whole of Wales are officially in drought and
By The Guardian
England and Wales are on course for their driest July on record, with drought now affecting half of England and all of Wales. The latest reports say southern England received just 1% of its long-term average July rainfall, while Wales has also seen exceptionally low rainfall.
The Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales have both announced drought conditions this week. Reuters reported that seven regions in England are now officially in drought, while BBC reporting said Wales has been declared in drought across the whole country.
The dry spell has come after multiple heatwaves since May, with reports describing the weather as a prolonged period of extreme heat and very little rain. The latest figures say England has had only 7% of its long-term average July rainfall so far, while Wales has recorded about 8%.
Officials have said the conditions are affecting water supplies and the natural environment, with drought concerns also linked to low reservoir levels and pressure on land and habitats.