Authorities in the United Kingdom declared a state of severe drought across sections of southern England on Thursday, 15 October 2026. Official communications indicated that the formal decision came after a prolonged spell of extraordinary weather patterns across the country. The region experienced its warmest summer since records began during 2026, driven by successive heatwaves. A persistent lack of rain throughout the period created severe dry conditions, with precipitation levels dropping to historic lows not observed since data collection first started in 1836. Environment Agency chief Philip Duffy stated that the combination of record summer temperatures and widespread dry conditions has placed water reserves under severe stress. Officials highlighted that water resources across the affected territories face ongoing pressure following the extreme weather.
Severe drought declared across parts of southern England
Official statement follows the hottest summer on record and lowest rainfall since 1836.
1 min read
In short
- Severe drought was officially declared in parts of southern England on 15 October 2026.
- The United Kingdom recorded its hottest summer in 2026 alongside extreme heatwaves.
- Rainfall dropped to its lowest level since national records were established in 1836.
From public sources and the WeNepal research team
https://wenepal.com/article/severe-drought-declared-across-parts-of-southern-england-20261015
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