Key facts
- Parts of Wales have officially declared drought conditions.
- July is on track to be the driest on record in Wales in nearly 200 years.
- Eight areas in England have also officially declared drought status.
- Record-low river flows and prolonged dry weather are impacting wildlife, crops, and leading to wildfires.
- Hosepipe bans are being implemented in parts of Wales and England.
Parts of Wales have officially entered drought conditions, joining eight areas in England that previously declared drought status. This declaration by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) comes after prolonged dry weather, record-low river flows, and consecutive heatwaves have severely impacted the environment. July is on track to be the driest on record in Wales in nearly two centuries, leading to concerns about fish, wildlife, crops, and firefighting capacity. Several fires continue to burn across Wales, prompting the government to activate crisis plans. The extreme heat, exacerbated by climate change, is contributing to widespread drought across Europe, with deadly wildfires and low river levels reported in Spain and France. The National Drought Group, comprising various environmental and industry bodies, has also noted prolonged dry weather in parts of southern, central, and eastern England. Specific rivers in north Wales and the Wye have recorded new monthly minimum flows or are nearing record lows. NRW previously moved north and south-east Wales to a “prolonged dry weather” status, triggering enhanced monitoring of waterways and wildlife sites. The agency defines drought as a significant shortage of rainfall and water availability impacting various sectors. While Welsh Water reports healthy overall reservoir levels, a hosepipe ban is in effect in parts of west Wales, and water usage is being closely monitored across both Wales and England. Approximately 23 million people are expected to be under hosepipe bans by the weekend. Last summer also saw drought declarations across much of England, Wales, and eastern Scotland, with conditions not officially ending until March. Experts warn that climate change will make UK summers significantly hotter and drier by 2070. Without substantial improvements in water system resilience, the UK faces an uncertain future with potential water shortages. A fundamental shift in understanding and water management practices is deemed necessary.