Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleHarriette BoucherFriday 07 August 2026 23:04 BSTEngland and Wales suffer driest July on record in summer of extreme weatherMore parts of England could face drought conditions next week as a fifth heatwave is anticipated, with temperatures potentially reaching 36C in some areas.The Environment Agency reported less than 10mm of rainfall for seven consecutive weeks, suggesting several regions may move into or towards drought.Around half of England and the entirety of Wales are already experiencing drought following their driest July on record.The UK Health Security Agency has issued heat health alerts across most of England, while a second consecutive summer drought is deemed "exceptionally serious."South West Water has implemented a hosepipe ban, restricting water use for nearly 26 million people across central and southern England and Wales.In fullMore of England at risk of moving into drought next weekMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in