The Environment Agency declared yesterday afternoon (Wednesday, July 29) that seven areas of England are now officially in a drought, after a long period of hot and dry weather. The mapped drought areas in the UK (Image: Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue / Environment Agency)“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. “We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated during the hot weather but every drop we can save is a drop more for nature and agriculture.” Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning about the heightened risk of wildfires in the conditions. A spokesperson for the service said: "With the ongoing hot and very dry weather it was announced yesterday that our region is now in drought conditions.