Helen Wakeham Confirms Drought Conditions Across More Than Half of England
Helen Wakeham, the director of water at the Environment Agency and chairwoman of the National Drought Group, confirmed that more than half of England is officially in a drought. The hot and dry weather has resulted in a lack of rainfall, with July set to be the driest on record. This "flash drought" has caused receding rivers, parched parks, and lower reservoir levels, with some areas experiencing 50 consecutive days without rain. While the Environment Agency has declared drought for seven regions, water companies have responded with varying restrictions. Thames Water has implemented a hosepipe ban for 10 million customers, while others like Bristol Water and Wessex Water have urged residents to use water carefully without immediate restrictions. The drought is attributed to rapid weather changes and global heating, which has increased the risk of severe, long-lasting conditions. Experts note that while current reserves should last for the months ahead, the lack of rain continues to impact wildlife, agriculture, and the economy.