Thomas Spencer

Satellite imagery shows the effects of consecutive heatwaves and unusually dry weather across the UK, including falling reservoir levels, brown vegetation, dried golf-course fairways and algal blooms in lakes. Reservoir storage in England is below the long-term average, while drought and water-scarcity warnings affect parts of England, Wales and Scotland. The dry conditions are expected to create risks for farming and food prices, and parched ground could increase flash-flooding risks when rainfall returns. Scientists warn that climate change and rising demand are increasing the UK’s long-term risk of water shortages.