England records its driest July after only 10 per cent of usual rainfall

Last month, England experienced its driest July in 190 years, receiving just 10 percent of the expected rainfall. Only 6.5 millimetres of rain fell, less than half the previous record of 13.4 millimetres set in 1911. July 2026 was not only the driest month but also the sunniest and second warmest on record. For the entire United Kingdom, it marked the third driest July on record, with just 28.9 millimetres of rainfall.

Southern England bore the brunt of the dry spell, receiving only 1.9 millimetres of rain – a mere 3 percent of its long-term average for July. Nineteen counties experienced rainfall of less than 1 millimetre throughout the entire month.

Last week, a vast section of England, stretching from its Atlantic coast to the North Sea, was officially declared in drought. Some areas have endured over 50 days without rain, leaving homes overheated, gardens and farmland parched, and commuters sweltering on public transportation as the country, largely lacking air conditioning, has never faced such extreme heat. Wildfires have also erupted, notably a significant blaze in Suffolk near a nuclear power plant.

Amy Doherty, science manager at the Met Office, stated that July 2026 stands out as a remarkable month in the UK's climate record, characterized by record-breaking dryness, exceptional warmth, and unprecedented sunshine. Helen Wakeham, chairwoman of the National Drought Group, emphasized the challenges posed by dry weather and scorching temperatures, which deplete water resources and increase demand.

All sectors are taking action, and the public is urged to follow restrictions to ensure water availability for everyone during the summer. The Met Office reported that the country is experiencing its fourth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures surpassing 28°C for three consecutive days, and an amber heat health alert has been issued, with temperatures expected to reach 33°C.