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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Environment
Helena Horton Environment reporter

Driest February in England since 1993 signals drought ahead, say experts

Low water levels at Baitings reservoir in Ripponden, West Yorkshire, reveal an ancient packhorse bridge in August 2022.
Low water levels at Baitings reservoir in Ripponden, West Yorkshire, reveal an ancient packhorse bridge in August 2022. Photograph: Christopher Furlong/Getty

The government risks sleepwalking into drought, experts have said, after England experienced an extremely dry February with very little rain forecast for spring.

Last year, most of England was plunged into drought conditions, with farmers struggling to plant and harvest crops, and hosepipe bans in action across the country. Water companies were preparing to take drastic action, including banning the filling of public swimming pools and cleaning non-domestic buildings.

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