Matt Faulkner

Farmers in Somerset say unusually hot and dry conditions are causing severe damage to crops and livestock, with one describing the situation as the worst drought in 50 years. Met Office data shows the county is experiencing its fourth-driest summer on record, following only 1.4mm of rain between 1 and 23 July. Farms have reported depleted irrigation water, losses of up to half of newly planted crops, and average yield reductions of 25% across southern England. Farmers are considering changes to planting systems and crop choices, while an agronomist warns that weather and geopolitical pressures could affect local food prices.

Farmers in Somerset are facing severe impacts from prolonged hot and dry weather, with some describing it as the worst drought since 1976. Met Office data shows the county is experiencing one of its driest summers on record, while rainfall in July has been exceptionally low. Farms are running short of irrigation water, and one organic farmer has lost half of crops planted in July, including brassicas, parsnips and celeriac. An agronomist estimates average crop yields across southern England are down 25%, raising concerns about food prices and future planting practices.