On 15 October 2026, Severe drought status was declared for parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex after the driest April to September in over a century depleted local reservoir levels - with further dry weather expected for the rest of October.
By Dr Rob Bradburne, Environment Agency Chief Scientist How does climate change affect drought? This summer has been a reminder that climate change is no longer something we talk about in terms of future generations. For many people, this summer …
Water is essential for drinking, farming, industry, wildlife and recreation. Sustainable water abstraction is essential to ensure that river flows and groundwater levels support ecology and natural resilience. We work side by side with abstractors, combining their knowledge of the land with ours, to …
As the summer boating season has drawn to a close, it’s a moment to reflect on the challenges and achievements of the past summer. Drought conditions have tested our waterways and infrastructure - but they’ve also revealed resilience, innovation, and a shared commitment to protecting England’s canals and rivers.
East Anglia is one of several areas across England experiencing prolonged dry weather or drought. Nationally, the Environment Agency is coordinating efforts through the National Drought Group to protect water supplies and the environment during this challenging period. Whilst the …
As autumn begins, many farmers are still feeling the effects of prolonged dry weather and drought despite recent rainfall. Here the Environment Agency provides advice on how to prepare for winter challenges such as flooding, slurry storage, and reservoir refilling.
For many, this has been a glorious summer, with long hot days being enjoyed by family gatherings, holidays and being outside! However, this spring and summer has been dry and the drought is causing significant environmental impacts, with Atlantic salmon, …
What is the situation in England? Drought was declared in the West and East Midlands on 15 July, joining the North-West and Yorkshire which went into drought in June. Dry weather continues to impact water resources across England requiring water …
Fisheries teams across England respond as drought and prolonged dry weather puts aquatic life at risk. England’s driest start to the year since 1976 is severely impacting waterways. While Environment Agency fisheries officers work with partners to help fisheries prepare …
Over the past 50 years, England has suffered lots of droughts - some of the more notable ones include 1975-76, 1989-92, 1995-96, 2004-06, 2011-12 and recently 2018, 2022 and 2025. But what does this mean, how does the Environment Agency …
