England and Wales Record Driest July Amid Relentless Heatwaves and Worsening Drought

LONDON: England and Wales have recorded their driest July since records began, following months of relentless heatwaves that have intensified drought conditions, triggered widespread wildfires, and placed increasing pressure on water supplies and agriculture across the United Kingdom.

According to preliminary figures from the UK Met Office, England received just 5.6 millimetres of rainfall during July—only around 8% of its long-term monthly average—while Wales recorded 7.9 millimetres, also about 8% of normal rainfall. Both figures surpass the previous record lows set in 1911.

The prolonged dry spell follows four successive heatwaves since May, with temperatures repeatedly exceeding seasonal norms. Half of England and the entirety of Wales are now officially classified as being in drought, prompting water restrictions, including hosepipe bans affecting an estimated 23 million people.

The extreme weather has fueled a surge in wildfires, with firefighters responding to hundreds of blazes during July alone. Rivers, lakes, and reservoirs have fallen to exceptionally low levels in several regions, while farmers are reporting reduced crop yields, early harvests, and increasing challenges in irrigating farmland.

Climate scientists warn that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent due to climate change. The Met Office has projected that, without significant adaptation and emissions reductions, UK summers could become up to 6°C hotter and as much as 60% drier by 2070, increasing the risks of prolonged droughts, water shortages, and heat-related emergencies.