Brits have been urged to take action as drought officials warn that England is now suffering from "nationally significant" water shortfalls.

Despite unsettled weather and heavy rainfall in July, the national drought group – including the Met Office, regulators, government, water companies and other organisations – says five areas of the country remain in drought, with six more in prolonged dry weather status.

As temperatures could climb to 34C on Tuesday (August 12) amid the fourth heatwave of summer , officials warn that the hot spell will put extra pressure on overstretched water supplies.

The lack of water is hitting crop yields, reducing feed for livestock, damaging wetlands and river wildlife, and increasing wildfires in England, the group said.

Rainfall was 89 per cent

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