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Flash Drought Hits England, 27 Million Restricted, Farmers Get Support

8/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

On 10 August 2026 the UK government declared a flash drought affecting 71.3 % of England and 27 million people under water-use restrictions.
England and Wales recorded their driest July in 190 years, receiving only about 10 % of average rainfall.
The Environment Agency said most English reservoirs are below normal, with five exceptionally low.
Water Minister Emma Hardy announced expanded farmer support, including on-site irrigation reservoirs, as health authorities reported 2,877 heat-related deaths this year.

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Story summary

On 10 August 2026 the UK government declared a flash drought affecting 71.3 % of England and 27 million people under water-use restrictions.
England and Wales recorded their driest July in 190 years, receiving only about 10 % of average rainfall.
The Environment Agency said most English reservoirs are below normal, with five exceptionally low.
Water Minister Emma Hardy announced expanded farmer support, including on-site irrigation reservoirs, as health authorities reported 2,877 heat-related deaths this year.