East Sussex is now officially in drought after the driest July on record.
Drought officials from the Environment Agency announced on Tuesday (11 Aug) that drought status – already in place in some other parts of the country – was being extended to Sussex.
It means 71.3% of England is now in drought, after the driest July since records began in 1836.
A drought order gives water companies extra freedom to take water from specific rivers or lakes, change how they discharge water, and ban specific non-essential water uses (such as commercial vehicle washing or watering public gardens).
The National Drought Group – made up of regulators, government officials, water companies and agricultural bodies – made the decision after a meeting on Monday.
A total of 45 million people are now living in a drought area in England, with more than 27 million facing water use restrictions.
The continued hot and dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires and both East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) and Ashdown Forest have urged residents to take extra care and be vigilant to prevent fires.
Farmers have reported reduced output after their earliest harvests in 20 years, with the National Farmers Union (NFU) warning that continued dry weather could lead to some food shortages.
NFU president Tom Bradshaw said yields of wheat and oats were “very, very poor” this year and warned livestock farmers have had to use their winter feed rations because they have been unable to grow grass.
Tony Grayling, strategic drought lead at the Environment Agency, said: “Drought conditions are worsening and will continue to do so until we see significant and sustained rainfall. We know the hot and dry weather is taking a real toll on farming and there will be long-lasting impacts on our environment.
“We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated over the summer, but we need everyone’s help in using a little less water to make sure our current water reserves last. Every drop we can save is a drop more for your local farmers, local wildlife and local rivers.”