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More than half of England in drought, Environment Agency declares
Officials said record-low rainfall and repeated heatwaves have cut reservoir and groundwater levels, prompting hosepipe bans and wildlife protections.
Just over half of England has been declared in drought due to record-low rainfall and very high temperatures, covering 51.4% of the nation including London and the West Midlands.
The drought has caused low river levels, early crop harvesting, increased wildfire risks, and water use restrictions for millions of people.
The U.K. experienced a new highest June temperature of 38°C and is facing multiple heatwaves with little rain expected.
Government agencies urge water conservation, recommending actions like fixing leaks and reducing tap use, as drought impacts on the environment and economy are expected to be long-lasting.
(London=Yonhap News) Correspondent Kim Ji-yeon = As the UK experiences successive heatwaves and dry weather, drought has been declared in more than half of England.