Based on data not yet definitive, July this month was the driest on record for eastern, southeast and southern England.
River levels in England are currently low, with serious impacts on agriculture, the natural environment and wildlife. Water providers have warned that it is possible to reduce water use by households.
South East England and South Central England saw an average of just five millimeters of rain, with an average of 23.2 millimeters in England. The UK averaged for July at 46.3 mm, making it the 19th driest July in the country since 1936.
The first irrigation ban will go into effect on August 5, affecting customers of water supplier Southern Water in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Consumers may not fill garden ponds, spray or wash cars with a hose.
Farmers have warned of the devastating effects of the drought as potatoes, sugar beets and corn suffer from a lack of rain, and some farmers are forced to harvest earlier than usual.
Many wild animals have not adapted to the warmer, drier conditions. Scientists have warned that some species, including bumblebees and many bird species, are struggling to survive.
This year, January-June was the driest period in the country since 1976.
Cover Photo: Getty Images
