More than half of England is officially in drought following unusually low rainfall and exceptionally high temperatures, the UK government and the Environment Agency say. Reports state that drought conditions cover seven areas across southern, eastern and central England, including regions named as part of “flash drought” conditions. The Environment Agency’s declarations are linked to very low river and reservoir levels, with rivers running low and pressures rising on water supplies. Multiple outlets report that the hot, dry weather is increasing wildfire risk and affecting farming, including impacts on crop harvesting and growing conditions. Water-use restrictions are also reported as being introduced or tightened, with millions of people potentially affected depending on local guidance. One report notes that the drought areas account for 51.4% of England. The coverage also highlights that the drought has developed quickly, with the combination of record-low rain and high temperatures creating rapid changes in drought severity across the affected regions.