Drought has been officially declared across more than half of England, marking the third such declaration in the past five years. The announcement comes as prolonged hot and dry weather conditions continue to impact the country's water resources, leaving rivers at low levels and landscapes parched.
The dry spell has led to visible signs of strain on the environment, with receding riverbanks, dry parklands, and diminished reservoirs across the nation. Photographers have captured images illustrating the extent of the drought, showing golf courses with dried grass and rivers flowing at significantly lower levels than usual.
This drought declaration follows similar periods in 2022 and 2025, highlighting a recurring pattern of water scarcity in recent years. The persistent hot weather has taken a significant toll on water supplies, affecting natural landscapes and recreational areas alike.
The dry conditions are evident in numerous locations, from golf courses to public parks and riverbeds. For instance, rowing boats have been seen grounded in dried-up sections of ponds, and river level markers at fords show critically low water levels. The River Thames in London has also experienced notably dropped water levels due to the prevailing hot and dry weather.
