The Environment Agency said prolonged hot and dry conditions have pushed several regions into drought status after weeks of exceptionally low rainfall. Earlier this month, much of the affected area had been classified as being in "prolonged dry weather" – the final stage before a drought is declared. Officials warned that dry conditions, warm temperatures and harvesting activity in rural areas are creating conditions in which fires can start and spread rapidly. Phil Garrigan, chairman of the NFCC, said: "More than 200 wildfires in just 12 days shows how quickly the risk can escalate when hot, dry conditions take hold." The combination of extreme heat, low rainfall and soaring water demand has intensified concerns about both drought conditions and wildfire risks as summer continues.