September 29, 2025

What’s the drought situation in the UK?

This summer was the warmest on record, with dry weather across the UK leading to water restrictions in parts of England, many of which are still in place.

While September brought wetter conditions, which might make it seem like the threat of drought has passed, the reality is more complex. The National Drought Group have recently warned that the current drought is far from over despite the recent rain, and sustained rainfall is needed over the winter and into 2026 to replenish reservoirs, rivers, and groundwater stores to avoid renewed drought pressures next year.

So, what’s the current drought situation in the UK? And what needs to happen over the coming year to prevent a full-on national-level drought? What does all this mean for our water supplies, the environment, and agriculture? Are there changes to our water infrastructure that could help prevent future droughts? And what’s the impact of climate change on our current and future water situation?

Journalists came along to this press briefing to hear from a panel of scientists who answered those questions and more.

Speakers included:

Mr Jamie Hannaford, Principal Hydrologist, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH)

Dr Will Lang, Chief Meteorologist at Met Office

Professor Jerry Knox, Professor of Agricultural Water Management Cranfield Water Science Institute, Cranfield University

Dr Chloe Brimicombe, Climate scientist, Royal Meteorological Society (RMetS)

Prof David Hannah, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sustainability), and Professor of Hydrology, and UNESCO Chair in Water Science, University of Birmingham