Europe to Face New Heatwave: Official Drought Declared in 70% of England

Europe is bracing for a new heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius this week. Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds of England has been officially declared as being in drought.According to forecasts by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and the meteorological agencies of European countries, temperatures are expected to rise again this week in France, Germany, the Netherlands, and England.This is the fifth heatwave of the year in England and France, and it is expected to particularly affect Western Europe. Daytime temperatures are expected to exceed seasonal norms in some areas.In France, temperatures are expected to rise rapidly during the week, approaching 40 degrees Celsius in some areas. Temperatures are expected to remain high throughout the week, especially in the interior and southern regions of the country.According to the German Meteorological Service, temperatures are expected to rise significantly across the country, with temperatures reaching up to 37 degrees Celsius in some areas, particularly in the southern regions. Temperatures in Frankfurt are expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius on Friday.In the Netherlands, sunny weather is expected to push temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius in the country's interior regions.In England, temperatures are expected to reach up to 36 degrees Celsius in some areas. A yellow alert has been issued for much of Belgium, with temperatures expected to reach 35 degrees Celsius on Thursday and Friday.Authorities are advising people, especially the elderly, children, and vulnerable groups, to take precautions against the high temperatures and to drink plenty of fluids.The new heatwave comes as large parts of Europe are experiencing drought and low rainfall. The prolonged hot and dry weather has led to drought in many areas, with historic low water levels in rivers such as the Rhine, Danube, and Po, which are crucial for the European economy.Low river levels are making it difficult to transport goods, and hydroelectric and nuclear power plants that rely on river water are under significant pressure.The high temperatures are also damaging agricultural production. The UK Environment Agency had declared a drought in half of England and Wales by the end of July.Following a meeting today, the UK's National Drought Group has added more areas to the list of regions affected by drought, including East Midlands, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire, Kent and East Sussex, and Solent and South Downs.As a result, 71.3% of England is now officially in drought, with water sources under pressure across the country.45 million people live in areas of England affected by severe drought, and 27 million people live in areas where water usage restrictions are in place.