The Latest Breaking News from Environment Agency

Swimmers warned of toxic algae at newly designated Thames bathing site

People told to keep themselves and their pets out of river at Ham amid anger over Thames Water’s plans to pump treated sewage

The Guardian - UK · Aug 19

London’s first official bathing area hit by toxic algae outbreak

Swimmers in the Ham and Kingston site on the Thames left with ‘really bad rash and itchy spots’

The Independent UK · Aug 19

Swimmers warned to avoid London's first official Thames bathing spot over toxic algae

The Environmental Agency have advised swimmers to stay out of the water after a potentially toxic bloom of blue-green algae was found

Evening Standard · Aug 19

England is officially in drought – how do we fix our water woes?

LET’S UNPACK THAT: With the drought hitting millions and putting Southern Water weeks away from completely running dry, Helen Coffey looks at what we can do as individuals – and as a nation – to conserve water as back-to-back heatwaves look set to be a recurring aspect of life

The Independent UK · Aug 14

Hosepipe bans make climate change more tangible – but restrictions can provoke resistance

Drought is affecting almost three-quarters of England and around 27 million people are under water use restrictions or hosepipe bans.

The Conversation · Aug 13

UK Extreme Heat Warning Deepens Water Crisis as Southern Water Seeks Business Use Ban

Southern Water seeks a business water-use ban as an amber extreme heat warning adds pressure to drought-hit England.

International Business Times UK · Aug 12

PM to chair emergency Cobra meeting amid ‘extreme heat’ warning and wildfires

Andy Burnham will hold an emergency Cobra meeting on Wednesday as temperatures this week could reach 38C and wildfires rage on.

Evening Standard · Aug 12

Remains of lost village uncovered as drought lowers reservoir levels in record-breaking heatwave

The hamlet was submerged to create a reservoir half a century ago

The Independent UK · Aug 11

England recorded driest July in 190 years with just 6.5mm of rain as drought and water stress deepen

In July 2023, England faced its driest month in nearly two centuries, with record-low rainfall. The high temperatures and abundant sunshine led to increased water consumption, resulting in reduced reservoir levels and river flows. Water companies were compelled to impose usage restrictions. Additionally, farmers struggled with early harvesting and depleting…

The Times of India · Aug 11

UK Heatwave Reaches Critical Point as Record Drought and Wildfires Add to Health Risk

The UK is experiencing its fifth heatwave this summer, with temperatures reaching 36°C, worsening drought conditions, and wildfires. Health alerts are in place, affecting millions across England.

International Business Times UK · Aug 11