Almost three-quarters of England is now in drought after the East Midlands and several other regions were moved into drought status following a dry start to August.
The National Drought Group said all parts of the country were experiencing pressure on water resources, with growing impacts on agriculture, public water supplies, navigation and the environment.
The East Midlands, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, Kent and East Sussex, and Solent and the South Downs were moved into drought status today.
Combined with areas placed in drought last week, 71.3% of England is now affected. Around 45 million people live in drought areas, while more than 27 million are subject to restrictions on water use.
The conditions have been described as a “flash drought”, which develops rapidly because of very low rainfall and high temperatures.
The North East and Yorkshire have moved into prolonged dry weather status, the stage before drought, meaning no part of England is now classified as being in normal conditions.
The change follows England’s driest July in 190 years. Just 5% of the rainfall normally expected during August has been recorded so far.
Further dry weather is forecast, alongside another spell of high temperatures that could reach the mid-30s Celsius in some areas.
Tony Grayling, the Environment Agency’s strategic drought lead and chair of the National Drought Group, said:
“Drought conditions are worsening and will continue to do so until we see significant and sustained rainfall.
“We know the hot and dry weather is taking a real toll on farming and there will be long-lasting impacts on our environment.
“We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated over the summer, but we need everyone’s help in using a little less water to make sure our current water reserves last.
“Every drop we can save is a drop more for your local farmers, local wildlife and local rivers.”
Water Minister Emma Hardy has told water companies to increase efforts to tackle leaks, which can become more frequent during hot weather as pipes move in dry soil.
People are also being encouraged to reduce unnecessary water use through measures such as turning taps off while brushing their teeth and repairing leaking toilets.
