A severe drought has been declared in six areas of England following record summer heat and critically low reservoir levels. Parts of Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex have entered severe drought status as water companies work to secure public supplies.
Some southern reservoirs have reached critical levels. Water companies are calling for extended restrictions that would affect golf clubs, private schools and car washes beyond current limitations.
The drought declaration follows the UK's hottest summer on record, which depleted water resources across affected regions. The severe drought designation triggers urgent measures to protect drinking water availability for residents in the impacted areas.