- Drought conditions were declared across half of England, including London.
- The Environment Agency announced that London and six other regions are officially in drought.
- Temperatures in London are expected to reach as high as 35C.
- July is set to be the driest month on record with only 7% of expected rainfall.
- The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat-health alert for London, the South East, East Midlands, and East.
- Thames Water introduced a temporary hosepipe ban for 10 million of its drinking water customers due to a lack of rainfall.
- It hasn’t rained in the capital since June 27 - some 32 days ago.
- A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife, and the economy.
Drought conditions have been declared across half of England, including London, as temperatures soar to 35C. The Environment Agency announced that this month is on track to be the driest July on record, with only 7% of expected rainfall across England and just 1% in southern regions.12348
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat-health alert for London and surrounding areas, highlighting the severe impact of the ongoing drought.5
The agency noted that this is the second consecutive summer drought, which poses serious risks to the environment, wildlife, and the economy.
Thames Water has already implemented a temporary hosepipe ban affecting 10 million customers due to the lack of rainfall, with no rain recorded in London since June 27, marking 32 days of dry weather.67
The Environment Agency has stated that it has “stepped up” its response to the dry conditions, as the threat of wildfires increases and farmers face significant challenges.
The declaration of drought in seven areas, including Hertfordshire and the entirety of London, underscores the urgent need for water conservation measures as the country grapples with these extreme weather conditions.
“The Environment Agency has reported that July is expected to have only 7% of the usual rainfall, with southern England seeing just 1%. Additionally, Thames Water has implemented a temporary hosepipe ban affecting 10 million customers due to the ongoing dry conditions.”
London Evening Standard
