Story perspectives

Record-Dry July Triggers Drought Declaration Across England, Wales

8/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Environment Agency declared drought after England and Wales recorded driest July.
River levels on the Thames, Lark and Ouse fell, leaving reservoirs classed “exceptionally low.”
NFU president Tom Bradshaw warned wheat and oat yields are “very poor,” risking shortages.
Milk output fell 20% on Charles Goadby’s farm and 18.5 million litres in July, while over 20 million people faced hose-pipe bans, firefighters fought 400 wildfires, and the government pledged nine reservoirs.

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Story summary

The Environment Agency declared drought after England and Wales recorded driest July.
River levels on the Thames, Lark and Ouse fell, leaving reservoirs classed “exceptionally low.”
NFU president Tom Bradshaw warned wheat and oat yields are “very poor,” risking shortages.
Milk output fell 20% on Charles Goadby’s farm and 18.5 million litres in July, while over 20 million people faced hose-pipe bans, firefighters fought 400 wildfires, and the government pledged nine reservoirs.