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First parts of the UK officially declare drought following record-breaking heatwaves

Natural Resources Wales said rainfall in north Wales and the Upper Severn fell below 2% of normal as river flows hit record lows.

  • On Thursday, Natural Resources Wales officially declared drought status in North Wales and the Upper Severn, marking the first such designation this summer following successive heatwaves and widespread wildfires.
  • While Wales recorded 106% of average rainfall in June, North Wales and the Upper Severn received less than 2% of expected rain this month, with river flows across the regions now "exceptionally low."
  • Sustainable water and nature manager Rhian Thomas said wildfires across North Wales are "one of the clearest and most visible signs of how dry our landscapes have become."
  • Everywhere in Wales is now experiencing either prolonged dry weather or drought conditions, placing significant pressure on the country's natural resources and ecosystems.
  • Compared to last year, when drought was declared later in summer, the current extreme heat has accelerated these conditions earlier, with NRW urging residents to use water wisely during this exceptionally dry period.
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River Thames locks part closed from Cotswolds to Oxford amid dry weather

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cambrian-news.co.uk broke the news on Thursday, July 23, 2026.
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