UK govt declares drought in eight areas of England

British Water Minister Steve Double said on Friday that the government declared drought in eight areas in central, eastern, and southern England out of 14 in total due to the extended period of dry weather followed by high temperatures. According to the Guardian, two more areas could enter drought later this month.

“All water companies have reassured us that essential supplies are still safe. We are better prepared than ever before for periods of dry weather, but we will continue to closely monitor the situation, including impacts on farmers and the environment, and take further action as needed,” the minister asserted.