Action needed to save water, minister tells MPs
The UK government has declared severe drought conditions across parts of southern England, affecting approximately 50 million people. Officials are urging citizens to use water wisely to prevent shortages from becoming a permanent fixture due to record-low rainfall.
Why it matters
The declaration highlights the growing impact of climate change on national infrastructure and the urgent need for sustainable water management policies.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Severe drought conditions have been declared across parts of southern England
The government has warned action is needed to prevent water shortages becoming "the norm" after severe drought was declared across parts of southern England.
Water and flooding minister Emma Hardy told MPs current drought conditions were "something we have not experienced for decades" and urged people to "think about ways to use water wisely over the coming weeks".
Severe drought was declared across parts of southern England on Thursday after months of low rainfall, with around 50 million people now impacted.
Parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex are all affected by the move announced by the Environment Agency.
The government said supplies would not be interrupted but declaring severe drought would ensure "proactive steps are taken to safeguard water before any disruption occurs".
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