UK declares drought across 51% of England after record heat

The Story in Brief

The UK government declared drought across 51 per cent of England on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, after record-low rainfall and a fourth widespread heatwave. The Environment Agency said the country experienced the driest July on record with just 7 per cent of expected rainfall nationwide; parts of southern England received only 1 per cent. Officials noted that a 'flash drought' develops quickly from low rain and high temperatures. The National Drought Group met on Tuesday to review impacts, preparedness and responses, ordering private water companies to prioritise fixing leaks. Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency, warned that water is being used faster than nature can replenish it. The Met Office confirmed that June saw a daily temperature record of 38°C for both England and the UK, higher than the previously reported 37.7°C.