Flash drought turns Regent’s Park brown in under two months
Environment Agency declares drought for London after record dry spell and fourth heatwave of 2026
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Regent’s Park has turned from green to brown in less than two months. A Reddit user posted two photographs taken at the Gloucester Gate entrance, one on 7 June and the other on 2 August. The first shows vibrant grass and trees; the second shows brown, dusty ground and drooping vegetation.
The change follows the Environment Agency’s declaration of a flash drought for London on 29 July. The agency said the drought covers London, East Anglia, Hertfordshire, Thames Valley, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Devon, Cornwall, the West Midlands, and Wessex. This is the third drought in five years, after declarations in 2022 and 2025.
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Hosepipe ban in force across most of London
A hosepipe ban is now in effect for most of London. The ban prohibits using hosepipes to water plants or grass outdoors. Thames Water and other suppliers introduced the restriction after reservoir levels fell and demand rose during the fourth heatwave of 2026.
Residents who break the ban risk enforcement action, though exemptions apply for some uses such as filling paddling pools for children or watering newly laid turf. Details are published on each water company’s website.
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Public reaction to the drought
Comments on the Reddit post expressed concern. One user wrote, “Damn, we really need a good splash of rain, to help our natural environment.” Another said, “We were there at the open air theatre yesterday. Huge parts of it aren’t even dry grass anymore, it’s all been worn away and now it’s just dust.”
Never thought we’d be saying that in London.
Reddit user, in reply to a comment about missing rain
What happens next
The Environment Agency will continue to monitor rainfall, reservoir levels, and river flows. If conditions worsen, further restrictions may be introduced. Residents are advised to check their water company’s website for updates and advice on reducing water use.
Questions this report answers
+What is a flash drought?
A flash drought is a rapid onset of dry conditions caused by low rainfall and high temperatures. The Environment Agency declared one for London on 29 July 2026 after the fourth heatwave of the year and very low rainfall.
+Where does the hosepipe ban apply?
The hosepipe ban applies to most of London. It prohibits using hosepipes to water plants or grass outdoors. Residents should check their local water company’s website for exact boundaries and exemptions.
+How long will the drought last?
It is unclear how long the drought will last. The Environment Agency will monitor rainfall, reservoir levels, and river flows. Further restrictions may be introduced if conditions do not improve.
+Can I still water my garden during the hosepipe ban?
No, the hosepipe ban prohibits using hosepipes to water plants or grass outdoors. Some exemptions apply, such as for newly laid turf or filling paddling pools for children. Check your water company’s website for details.
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