Barnet faces drought as London heat alert extended to Friday

Barnet and the rest of London remain under an amber heat health alert until 9pm on 29 August, as England faces its driest July since records began in 1836. The Environment Agency announced on 25 August that more than two-thirds of England is now in drought, following a meeting of the National Drought Group. Temperatures in the capital are forecast to reach 35°C on 28 August, with no significant rainfall expected to ease the dry conditions.

Drought declared across most of England

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The Environment Agency said the latest drought declaration follows weeks of extreme heat and minimal rainfall. Kent, East Sussex, the East Midlands, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire were the most recent areas to move into drought status. No region in England remains in a normal water status, with the North East and Yorkshire now classified as experiencing prolonged dry weather, the stage before drought.

Rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater levels continue to decline, according to the Environment Agency. Only 14% of rivers are at normal levels, while more than a fifth are exceptionally low, including the Avon, Wye, Ely, Ouse, and Exe. Reservoir levels have fallen to 69% of capacity, well below the average for this time of year. The agency warned that water temperatures are rising, leading to increased fish rescues and drying wetlands.

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Impact on Barnet and London

The UK Health Security Agency issued the amber heat health alert for London and the South East, warning residents to take precautions. Officials advised drinking plenty of water, checking on vulnerable neighbours, and avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day. The Met Office is considering issuing a rare red health alert if temperatures continue to rise.

Hosepipe bans are now in place for 27 million customers across England, including in London. The Environment Agency said the current drought is the third in the past five years, with similar conditions reported in 2022 and 2025. Wildfires have also increased, with 245 reported on protected sites this year alone. In London, dried-out parks such as Brockwell Park in Lambeth and Hollow Pond in Wanstead have become visible symbols of the drought.

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.

Tony Grayling, strategic drought lead at the Environment Agency

What happens next

The Met Office forecasts that the current heatwave will subside over the weekend, bringing fresher air and some rain. However, forecasters warned that any rainfall is unlikely to make up for the deficit accumulated over recent months. Sarah Davies, head of environment and energy at the Met Office, said there is no strong signal for sustained widespread rainfall in the coming weeks, with below-average rainfall more likely than above-average.

Water minister Emma Hardy said the government is working to support farmers and improve water infrastructure. Measures include making it easier for farmers to build onsite irrigation reservoirs and delivering nine new reservoirs across the country. Hardy also urged water companies to minimise leakage and thanked customers for adhering to hosepipe bans.

The National Drought Group, which includes water companies, farming leaders, and government officials, will continue to monitor conditions. The Environment Agency said it expects drought conditions to worsen until significant and sustained rainfall occurs. Residents are advised to follow water-saving advice and prepare for prolonged dry conditions.