Half of England Is in Drought Again This Summer

Half of England is officially in drought as of July 29, 2026 — the second summer in a row. Seven regions across the south, Midlands, and East Anglia are affected. Reservoirs and underground water stores never refilled over winter, and forecasters see no meaningful rain ahead. Environment Agency official Helen Wakeham called it "exceptionally serious" for nature and the economy. Hosepipe bans and further water limits now loom.