The West and East Midlands have officially been declared in drought, as England continues to face prolonged dry conditions that are putting increasing strain on national water resources.
The Environment Agency confirmed the move, stating that the National Drought Group (NDG) has escalated its operational response and is urging the public to conserve water and adopt sustainable usage habits.
England Faces Driest Start to the Year Since 1976
Helen Wakeham, Director for Water at the Environment Agency and Chair of the NDG, described the situation as critical:
“This has been the driest start to the year since 1976, and we must take urgent action to protect our water supply through the summer months.”
Wakeham added that all NDG partners have been instructed to increase their efforts in managing the drought, with Environment Agency teams actively monitoring river levels and working to secure water availability for both the public and the environment.
The Agency is now calling on residents, businesses, and landowners across England to use water wisely, as forecasts suggest continued below-average rainfall in the coming weeks.
The declaration raises concerns for farming, biodiversity, and public health, particularly as the UK braces for what could be one of the hottest and driest summers in decades.
