England is facing worsening drought conditions after recording its driest July since records began in 1836, with 71.3% of the country now officially classified as being in drought. Around 45 million people are living in affected areas, while more than 27 million people face water-use restrictions.
The expanding drought comes alongside a major wildfire in England’s New Forest National Park, where more than 120 firefighters have battled flames that scorched approximately 1 square kilometer of heathland — equivalent to around 140 football pitches. The fire began after a van caught fire on the A31 before spreading into surrounding heathland.
Although authorities say the wildfire is now under control, firefighting operations are expected to continue for several days. The incident has also caused significant disruption to the A31, with the road suffering substantial damage.
The situation is expected to remain challenging as another heat wave approaches. Temperatures in southeast England could reach 36°C (96.8°F), while heat-health alerts have been upgraded in several areas.
Officials are warning that continued hot and dry conditions could have lasting consequences for farming, water supplies, wildlife and the wider environment, adding to concerns over the UK’s increasing exposure to extreme weather.
