The Environment Agency has declared drought status in seven regions due to an extended spell of low rainfall and high temperatures. Why are parts of the UK suffering from a flash drought? "A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife, and the economy. The drought comes amid the UK's fourth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures climbing past 30C in several places. Nearly a third of England—including Yorkshire and parts of the South East and North West—is now classified as being in a "prolonged dry status."