US EditionWater shortfall declared 'nationally significant' as amber heat health alert comes into force
Five areas in England are officially in drought amid the fourth heatwave of 2025, with water demand down 10% after hosepipe bans, officials said.
- On August 12, 2025, England faced a nationally significant water shortfall amid hosepipe bans and an amber heat health alert across several regions.
- The crisis followed the driest six months since 1976, with eight areas officially in drought and six more facing prolonged dry weather.
- Reservoirs averaged only 67.7% full against a usual 80.5%, nearly half of rivers had low flows, and wildfires increased, stressing emergency services.
- Helen Wakeham emphasized that the current circumstances have serious national implications and urged all individuals to contribute towards easing the strain on the water environment.
- The government is increasing investment in reservoirs and urging water companies and the public to save water, while heatwaves intensify pressure on supplies.
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England is facing a water shortage deemed to be of "national importance" after a historically dry semester. Five regions are affected, crops suffer, and the authorities call on the population to limit its consumption.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources22
Leaning Left4Leaning Right2Center8Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Center
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources are Center
57% Center
L 29%
C 57%
14%
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