Half of Britain in drought
The Environment Agency has declared official drought zones in a further 17 English counties and warned the shortages could last until Christmas or beyond. It is the worst national water shortage since 1976.
Farmers and wildlife at risk from drought
The Environment Agency has said that agriculture and wildlife could be the main victims of the worsening drought in the UK. Specifically, it warned:
- Livestock farmers and fruit, vegetable and salad growers in east, central and south-east England may face shortages
- Plant and wildlife species could be lost in freshwater and wetland sites
- Higher risk of woodland fires and serious chemical pollution in rivers
- Boating restrictions on the Oxford and Grand Union Canal
- Hosepipe bans in the South East and Anglia
ITV West reports that Wessex Water is taking measures to protect wildlife and agriculture.
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