A state of drought was declared on Friday across much of England, which had its driest start to a year in nearly half a century, the British government announced.
This decision, which involves measures at the local level that can lead to restrictions on the use of water, is declared for the first time since 2018.
It arrives in the middle of a heat wave in the United Kingdom, the second of the summer, in a country that is not used to high temperatures. According to scientists, these episodes will multiply, lengthen and intensify under the effect of global warming.
Activated the orange “extreme heat” alert
An orange “extreme heat” alert has been in effect from Thursday to Friday for most of southern England and parts of Wales, according to Britain’s Met Office meteorologist. If the absolute record of 40.3°C reached on July 20 is not reached, temperatures of up to 35°C are expected on Friday, and even 36°C during the weekend.
“Water supplies are safe,” the ministry and environment agency said in a statement, adding that authorities are asking water companies to “continue preventive planning to protect critical supplies in the event of a dry autumn.” “.
“We’re calling on everyone to steward the amount of water they use in this exceptionally dry weather,” said Environment Agency Executive Director Harvey Bradshaw.
“We are better prepared than ever for periods of hot weather, but we will continue to closely monitor the situation, including the impact on farmers and the environment, and take additional action if necessary,” said Secretary of State for Water, Steve. Double.
Driest July on Record
The UK had the driest July on record in some areas and the driest first half on record since 1976.
The situation is such that the source of the Thames is dry and the river that crosses London only begins to flow about eight kilometers further down, an unprecedented situation.
Vegetation fires are on the rise, and in London’s parks, as in much of the country, the usual green of lawns has given way to a dusty, straw-yellow ground.
Source: BFM TV
