Driest July in Southern England: Climate Crisis Impact 2026

The driest July in southern England since records began has been confirmed by the Met Office, highlighting the severe impact of the climate crisis on weather patterns. This record-breaking dryness, combined with exceptional warmth and unprecedented sunshine, has created one of the most notable summer months in historical records, affecting agriculture, wildlife, and water supplies.

Record-Breaking Dryness and Heat

July 2026 was the driest month in southern England since records started nearly 200 years ago. England and Wales also provisionally recorded their driest July since 1836. Wales experienced its joint warmest July on record for mean temperature, while England saw its second warmest July. The Met Office noted that these remarkable conditions came amid a summer marked by multiple heat records, with heatwaves made more intense and likely by the fossil fuel-driven climate crisis.

Temperature and Rainfall Data

The combination of extreme dryness and heat has been unprecedented. July marked the sixth consecutive month with above-average mean temperatures, with only January being cooler than average. Dr. Amy Doherty, a science manager at the Met Office, stated: "The combination of record-breaking dryness, exceptional warmth, and unprecedented sunshine has delivered one of the most notable summer months in our historical records."

Impacts on Drought and Water Supply

The Environment Agency reported that the conditions are affecting farmers, wildlife, and the availability of water for public and business use. Half of England and the whole of Wales were declared officially in drought, with 40% of England's population under a hosepipe ban. The National Farmers' Union warned that the punishing drought could lead to shortages of certain foods in Britain.

Wildfires and River Flows

Supercharged by the climate crisis, a series of huge wildfires has torched large parts of Europe this summer. Greece is battling one of the worst wildfire seasons of the past decade, while France allowed thousands of evacuees to return after its largest wildfire on record. Rivers are facing extremely low flows, with the Danube's water flow falling to 1,500 cubic metres per second in Romania, less than a third of its July average.

Key Takeaways

• Southern England experienced its driest July since records began in 1836.
• Wales had its joint warmest July, and England its second warmest.
• Half of England and all of Wales are in official drought.
• 40% of England's population faces hosepipe bans.
• Wildfires and low river flows are affecting Europe.
• Climate crisis intensifies heatwaves and droughts.

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