England Braces for Prolonged Dry Spell as National Drought Group Urges Urgent Water-Saving Measures

Published: 12 August — The English Chronicle Desk

England is facing a nationally significant water shortage, with experts warning that dry conditions could persist until mid-autumn, placing unprecedented strain on rivers, reservoirs, and aquifers. The National Drought Group, which brings together government officials, meteorologists, regulators, water companies, farmers, conservationists, and other stakeholders, convened this week to map out strategies for conserving water as supplies continue to dwindle.

Environment Secretary Steve Reed has briefed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden on the risks posed by the prolonged dry spell. The situation has already prompted several water companies to act, with Southern Water applying for a non-essential use ban that would prohibit businesses from filling swimming pools or cleaning windows. The utility has also sought emergency permission to draw water from a rare chalk stream once it falls below its ecologically safe flow level — a move underscoring the severity of the crisis.

The drought is having a far-reaching impact across multiple sectors. Canals have been closed to navigation due to low water levels, farmers are struggling to grow crops and feed livestock, and there has been an uptick in reports of fish die-offs. Data from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology shows that in July, rainfall across England was just 89% of the long-term average, marking the sixth consecutive month of below-average precipitation. The Wye and the Great Ouse at Ely hit their lowest recorded July levels.

Currently, five regions — Yorkshire; Cumbria and Lancashire; Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire; the East Midlands; and the West Midlands — are officially in drought. Experts warn that more areas could be added to the list as aquifers, which store water underground and take significant time and sustained rainfall to recharge, become increasingly depleted. Although aquifer reserves were replenished after a wet winter in 2024 and early 2025, this year’s dry spring and summer have sharply reduced their levels.

The hydrological outlook for August to October forecasts normal to below-normal groundwater levels across most of England, with notably low levels in southern chalk and limestone areas, including central southern England, south Wales, and the South Downs. These conditions will exacerbate water scarcity for communities and industries reliant on these fragile water sources.

Dr Will Lang, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, noted that temperatures are expected to climb towards the mid-30s Celsius in southern England, with high pressure likely to dominate in the second half of August, resulting in more settled — and potentially drier — weather. While showers or thunderstorms cannot be ruled out, they are unlikely to significantly replenish depleted water supplies.

Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency and chair of the National Drought Group, stressed the need for collective action. “The current situation is nationally significant, and we are calling on everyone to play their part and help reduce the pressure on our water environment. Water companies must continue to quickly fix leaks and lead the way in saving water. We know the challenges farmers are facing and will continue to work with them, other land users and businesses to ensure everyone acts sustainably.”

With the drought forecast to persist well into autumn, England now faces the dual challenge of protecting fragile ecosystems and maintaining water security for households, businesses, and agriculture — a balancing act that will demand both immediate action and long-term planning.