A drought has been officially declared across the entirety of Wales as the country experiences conditions on track to be the driest July in almost 190 years. The declaration was made by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), citing sustained high temperatures that have led to the deterioration of the natural environment.
The decision follows record-low river levels, dry soil conditions, widespread wildfires, and impacts on wildlife, farming, and forestry. NRW had previously announced a drought in the north and parts of mid-Wales last week.
The nationwide drought declaration will increase monitoring of rivers and lead to stronger public guidance on water usage. The dry conditions have already caused visible effects, such as low water levels in reservoirs.