What's happened
As of June 23, 2025, Yorkshire has officially entered drought status following the driest spring in 132 years, with reservoir levels critically low. Meanwhile, Australia continues to face severe drought conditions, impacting agriculture and water supply. Both regions are experiencing significant environmental stress due to climate change.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
- Yorkshire has declared drought status, with reservoir levels at 62.3%, significantly below the average of 85.5%.
- Australia faces a 'fodder drought,' impacting livestock feed and leading to increased animal sales.
Climate Impact
- Both regions are experiencing the effects of climate change, with predictions of more frequent and severe droughts.
- The UK has seen its driest spring in over a century, while Australia has recorded near-lowest rainfall levels.
Future Outlook
- Without significant rainfall, Yorkshire may implement water restrictions, while Australian farmers continue to struggle with feed shortages.
- The situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management and climate adaptation strategies.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Yorkshire's drought status was declared after a record dry spring, with reservoir levels dropping to 62.3%. Claire Barrow from the Environment Agency emphasized the need for water conservation as the region faces potential restrictions. Meanwhile, in Australia, The Guardian reported on the ongoing 'fodder drought,' with farmers struggling to feed livestock due to prolonged dry conditions. Mark Billing, president of Dairy Farmers Victoria, noted that this is not a normal year, highlighting the severity of the situation. Both regions illustrate the pressing challenges posed by climate change on water resources and agriculture.
How we got here
Yorkshire's drought status follows a record-breaking dry spring, with reservoir levels dropping significantly. In Australia, prolonged drought has affected major agricultural regions, leading to severe water shortages and economic strain on farmers. Both situations highlight the increasing impact of climate change on water resources.
Go deeper
- What measures are being taken to address the drought?
- How is climate change affecting agriculture in these regions?
- What can individuals do to conserve water during a drought?
Common question
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What Caused the Drought Status in Yorkshire?
Yorkshire has officially declared a drought status due to the driest spring in over a century. This situation raises many questions about the causes, impacts, and responses to the ongoing water crisis in the region. Below, we explore the key factors contributing to this drought and its implications for local communities and agriculture.
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What Caused Yorkshire's Drought Status?
Yorkshire has officially declared a drought status due to the driest spring in over a century. This situation raises many questions about the causes, impacts, and responses to the ongoing water crisis in the region. Below, we explore the key factors contributing to this drought and its implications for agriculture and local communities.
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What caused the drought in Yorkshire?
Yorkshire has officially declared a drought following the driest spring in over a century. This situation raises important questions about the causes of drought, the role of climate change, and the implications for local communities. Below, we explore the key factors contributing to this crisis and what it means for the future.
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How is the Drought Affecting Agriculture and Water Supply in England and Australia?
Drought conditions are becoming increasingly severe in regions like England and Australia, raising concerns about their impact on agriculture and water supply. As farmers face unprecedented challenges, understanding the implications of these droughts is crucial. Below, we explore common questions regarding the effects of drought on farming and water resources.
More on these topics
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The Environment Agency is a non-departmental public body, established in 1995 and sponsored by the United Kingdom government's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with responsibilities relating to the protection and enhancement of the envi
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Yorkshire Water is a water supply and treatment utility company servicing West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, the East Riding of Yorkshire, part of North Lincolnshire, most of North Yorkshire and part of Derbyshire, in England.
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Yorkshire, formally known as the County of York, is a historic county of Northern England and the largest in the United Kingdom.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.