Nearly three-quarters of England and all of Wales are currently experiencing drought conditions, with repeated heatwaves and a lack of rainfall putting pressure on water supplies. Both regions have recorded their driest July on record, adding to the effects of a dry spring and early summer. This has impacted rivers, crops, and natural environments, leading to hosepipe bans for roughly 30 million people across parts of England and Wales. These bans restrict the use of garden hoses, car washing, and filling swimming pools to conserve water. Drought is not defined by a single standard but is generally marked by prolonged periods of low rainfall. As the ground dries, vegetation and crops can struggle, and rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater levels may decline, reducing available water. In the UK, environmental agencies in each nation assess current water levels and weather forecasts to decide whether to declare drought or water scarcity. While drought is caused by dry weather, water scarcity occurs when demand for water exceeds the available supply. This summer, some areas have introduced restrictions to manage high demand, especially in response to record-breaking temperatures that often exceeded 35°C. Despite the current dry conditions, the UK experienced a wetter-than-usual winter, raising concerns about the management of water resources and preparedness for drier summers expected with climate change. Eleven UK water companies have introduced hosepipe bans, with ten in central, southern, and eastern England, and one in Wales. In England, nearly three-quarters of the country is now in drought, while northern areas are in a less severe category called "prolonged dry weather." All of Wales is in drought, with reports of environmental conditions worsening due to high temperatures. Northern Ireland has no official droughts, and Scotland, which does not declare droughts, is monitoring "water scarcity." Some areas in Scotland remain in the most severe scarcity categories, despite recent rainfall improving conditions in parts of the country. The UK's main water sources are rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater. In July, almost all river flows in England and Wales were classified as below normal, with many being "exceptionally low." Hydrologists have noted that this is the third time in five years that droughts have intensified rapidly following dry springs and summers. Reservoir levels in England are below average for this time of year, while Wales’ reservoirs are also declining, though Welsh Water claims its resources are relatively strong. In Northern Ireland and Scotland, reservoir levels are near average. South-east England relies more on groundwater, which is stored underground in rocks and can take years to respond to changes in weather. While groundwater levels are generally declining, almost half of monitored sites still showed normal or higher levels in July. Droughts are influenced by both natural and human factors. As global temperatures rise, the UK is expected to face drier summers, though no clear trend has emerged yet. Warmer temperatures increase evaporation, which can lead to faster depletion of water sources and more severe droughts. However, water usage patterns also play a significant role in whether dry conditions lead to shortages. A recent review of the water sector in England and Wales criticized underinvestment in infrastructure, prompting plans for nine new reservoirs by 2050. The Environment Agency has warned that measures like hosepipe bans may still be necessary to manage water demand. Water companies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, which are public or non-profit, are also taking steps to ensure future water security.