National Drought Group officials expect to declare more parts of England in drought following a meeting on Monday, Aug. 10 [1].
The expanding crisis threatens national water security and agricultural productivity as an escalating climate crisis depletes essential supplies. With a potential fifth heatwave of the year expected this week [1], the pressure on the UK's water infrastructure has reached a critical threshold.
All of Wales and more than half of England are already in drought [1]. Seven areas of England have been officially declared in drought by the Environment Agency [2]. Among these regions, Herefordshire has been officially declared in drought [4].
Water use restrictions are already widespread across the country. Approximately 27 million people across England and Wales are currently under a hose-pipe ban [3]. These measures aim to preserve dwindling reservoirs as the region faces an unprecedented period of hot, dry weather [1], [5].
Representatives from the Environment Agency and the National Drought Group met Monday afternoon to coordinate the response [1]. An official assessment of the water levels and the necessity for further declarations is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 12 [1].
Officials said the current weather patterns are driven by the climate crisis [1], [5]. The continued lack of rainfall combined with extreme temperatures has left several regions unable to maintain standard water supply levels. This has led to discussions regarding further restrictions, including potential bans on car washes, and the filling of swimming pools [3].
“All of Wales and more than half of England are already in drought”
The expansion of drought zones in England indicates that current water management strategies are struggling to keep pace with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. By declaring official droughts, the government can trigger emergency powers and stricter water-use regulations to prevent total reservoir failure, signaling a shift from seasonal weather management to long-term climate adaptation.
