Drought

Eight areas of England, including my own little patch, have officially been declared to be in drought. As well as setting temperature records, this summer is also said to be the driest for decades. River levels are currently running low, one of the main sources of the Thames for example is said to have dried up.

Read more about the announcement from BBC News.

This official status means water companies can more readily impose measures to protect supplies. Hose pipe bans will no doubt follow very soon although it is likely "essential" businesses such as golf courses will be exempt. Whilst there might be sufficient water for the summer, the feeling is we need to conserve water in case Autumn and Winter are particularly dry.