The Environment Agency has declared Wiltshire and much of the West Country to be in a state of prolonged dry weather following weeks of exceptionally low rainfall and soaring temperatures.
The designation applies to Bristol, Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire, as well as neighbouring parts of Gloucestershire and Hampshire covered by the agency’s Wessex area.
Officials say the prolonged dry conditions are already having an impact on rivers, wildlife and water resources, with concerns growing over low river flows, rising water temperatures and falling oxygen levels that threaten fish and other aquatic life.
Environment Agency officers are preparing for an increase in environmental incidents during the summer, with warm, slow-moving water encouraging the growth of weeds and algal blooms.
Groundwater levels are also beginning to fall below normal in some areas, while forecasts suggest the dry spell is likely to continue despite the possibility of some showers later this month.
Matt Akers, Environment Planning and Engagement Manager at the Environment Agency, said the contrast in recent weather had been dramatic.
“There’s been a big difference in the environment in the past month. June had 132 per cent of its typical rainfall. This month we’ve had less than one per cent so far.
“We are seeing low river flows in places like the Hampshire Avon and water temperatures of 24C, which is almost tropical.
“The Environment Agency is keeping a close eye on the situation and remains ready to respond to incidents created by these conditions.”
The agency has already been responding to reports of fish in distress, most recently helping to relocate hundreds of fish from the River Tarrant in Dorset to safer waters. Further work, including weed cutting and vegetation management, is also planned to improve river conditions.
Although 2026 began with relatively wet weather, rainfall between March and May was below average across much of the West Country. While June brought heavier rain, most of it fell during the first 10 days of the month and was unevenly distributed, leaving many areas still facing a significant rainfall deficit.
The situation is being monitored by the National Drought Group, which brings together the Met Office, government departments, regulators, water companies, farming organisations, environmental bodies and conservation groups.
Residents are being encouraged to play their part by using water wisely to help protect supplies and the environment.
Simple measures include taking shorter showers, fixing leaking taps, using a bucket or watering can instead of a hosepipe, running household appliances on eco settings and avoiding unnecessary water use wherever possible.
While the declaration is not a drought announcement, it reflects growing concern over the environmental effects of the prolonged spell of hot, dry weather and serves as a reminder that every drop counts as summer continues.
