England Enters Second Consecutive Summer Drought

Half of England is officially in drought as of July 29, 2026 — the second summer in a row. Seven regions across southern England, the Midlands, and East Anglia are affected. Reservoirs and aquifers — underground water stores — never recovered over winter, and the Met Office forecasts no meaningful rainfall. Environment Agency director Helen Wakeham called it "exceptionally serious" for the environment, wildlife, and economy. Hosepipe bans and further restrictions now loom.