Key facts
- 71.3% of England is officially in drought.
- The driest July since records began in 1836 has been recorded.
- The National Drought Group declared the drought status.
- The decision was made after a meeting on Monday.
- 45 million people in England are living in drought areas.
- More than 27 million people face water use restrictions.
England is currently experiencing widespread drought conditions, with 71.3% of the nation officially declared to be in drought. This significant declaration was made by the National Drought Group following a meeting on Monday. The current drought status is attributed to the driest July on record, with weather data dating back to 1836 indicating no drier July in the past 186 years. As a consequence of these dry conditions, a substantial portion of the population is affected. A total of 45 million people in England are now residing in areas officially designated as being in drought. Furthermore, more than 27 million of these individuals are facing specific water use restrictions. These restrictions are likely to impact daily life and various sectors that rely on water resources.