Overview

• The National Drought Group reported reservoirs fell by 1.4% in the past week, leaving stocks at 56.1% on average versus a typical 82.8%.
• The lowest holdings include the Pennines at 29%, Yorkshire at 30.3%, and Ardingly in West Sussex at 34.1%.
• About 20% of the Canal & River Trust network—around 400 miles—is closed, with some feeder reservoirs such as the Peak Forest and Macclesfield group at 11.1% capacity.
• Officials cite wide impacts on nature and farming, including reduced crop yields, disrupted salmon and amphibian breeding, and at least 3,000 hectares of protected land lost to wildfires.
• The Met Office warns flash floods remain possible during intense downpours, and ministers are pressing water firms to follow drought plans as reforms including nine new reservoirs progress.