Map reveals SIX regions hit by ‘severe drought’ in UK this autumn – as 24million still under hosepipe ban

1 comment 1 Next SEVERE drought has been declared in six regions of England after months of dry conditions this summer. The escalation comes as at least 24million people still face water restrictions under hosepipe bans. 3 More than 80 per cent of England is currently in drought Credit: Environment Agency 3 Severe drought has been declared in parts of Cornwall, Devon and Sussex Credit: Environment Agency Advertisement Parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset , East Sussex and West Sussex are now considered to be in the most serious stages of drought. Around 80 per cent of England is currently experiencing drought conditiions after prolonged periods of dry weather this year. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Email address Please provide a valid email. Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy You'll now receive top stories, breaking news, and more, straight to your email. Water companies have also been urged to step up their drought planning to protect water supplies in the future. 3 News of the drought comes as 24million Brits continue to face hosepipe bans Credit: Reuters According to the Environment Agency, “severe drought” is the most critical stage of dry conditions, which can directly impact farming , people, communities, the economy and the environment. Read more News ICE TO KNOW When the first day of winter 2026 is - dates of the UK seasons and solstices HIGH & DRY Severe drought declared in SIX regions of England as millions under hosepipe ban Its website reads: “The lack of water leads to serious water shortages and widespread impacts across sectors. “It’s when the lack of water begins to disrupt daily life and the environment in major ways.” Only last week, drought was declared in Yorkshire due to “low water levels”, despite recent rainfall. Advertisement News of the severe drought comes while nine water companies continue to enforce hosepipe ban restrictions, with at least 24million Brits said to be affected. Most read in The Sun CRYPTO TWIST Mystery as ‘killer’ who 'dismembered crypto millionaire and wife' found dead CATCH 'EM ALL 'Pristine' rare Pokemon cards worth £12,000 are STOLEN from UK bungalow HO HO NO Christmas market bosses slam 'handful with own agenda' after AXING huge UK event RAPE PROBE Two girls, 14, 'raped & sexually assaulted' as CCTV is issued after man arrested Under a temporary use ban, customers cannot use a hosepipe, sprinkler or pressure washer for various activities, such as watering plants or filling up hot tubs. Anyone caught breaking the rules can face a £1,000 fine, unless an apporved exemption or loophole is in place. 1 comment 1