From Stonehenge to the Serpentine - satellite images show impact of hot, dry summer

Following consecutive hot, dry summer heatwaves, more parts of England and Wales are officially being declared in drought conditions. Satellite imagery reveals the profound impact of this year's extreme weather on iconic sites across the UK. Notably, reservoir levels have dropped dramatically, with several reservoirs now below normal or critically low levels.

For instance, Clywedog reservoir in Powys, providing water for the West Midlands, has visible banks that were not apparent last year. The Environment Agency reports that reservoir storage in England stands at 69%, below the long-term average of 82%, although higher than last year's drought levels. While Scotland has faced less severe conditions, July saw below-average rainfall, leading to warnings of water scarcity in certain areas.

In golf, the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale in Merseyside highlighted the stark contrast in fairway conditions between summer 2025 and previous years. In London, Hyde Park's Serpentine lake was temporarily closed due to blue-green algae blooms, a phenomenon more prevalent in warm, sunny conditions. Similarly, Killington Reservoir in Cumbria showed a visible blue-green algal bloom over time.

Hyde Park itself has turned largely brown due to consecutive heatwaves, mirroring the parched fields surrounding Stonehenge in Wiltshire. While the vegetation stress does not indicate permanent harm, the situation raises concerns for the farming industry and potential food price hikes. Prolonged dry spells could also lead to flash flooding when rain finally arrives, as parched ground struggles to absorb water.

Experts warn that the UK faces increasing risks of water shortages in the future due to climate change and rising demand.