Record Drought Threatens Kent, Sussex and Surrey Communities
Satellite Evidence Reveals Landscape in Crisis Across the Region
When you compare aerial photographs taken over the past year, the transformation across our region is startling. July 2026 has officially become the driest month in England since records began nearly two centuries ago, according to the Met Office. Satellite imagery comparing Kent, Sussex, and Surrey between 2025 and 2026 shows dramatic shifts in vegetation health, with once-lush fields now displaying shades of brown and gold.
The Wisley meteorological station in Surrey has experienced something remarkable—and deeply concerning—for the area: over 50 consecutive days without rainfall, breaking records at that long-established weather station. For those of us living here, the visual evidence is unmistakable. Parks that usually maintain verdant grasses appear parched. Gardens across our communities show signs of stress despite residents’ best watering efforts.
Experts at the Environment Agency are now classifying most of south-east England as being in “prolonged dry weather,” with officials warning that several areas should prepare for status changes that could trigger an official drought declaration. With drought already declared across more than half the country, our region faces a critical tipping point in the coming weeks.
Local Farmers and Businesses Face Unprecedented Pressure
The farming community across our region is under severe strain. Agricultural producers of all kinds—from dairy farmers to market gardeners supplying local shops and farmers’ markets—are making desperate decisions about their livestock and crops. Some farmers have already begun feeding their winter reserves to animals now, a troubling indicator of how severe conditions have become.
For businesses reliant on water supply, the situation is equally pressing. South East Water and Thames Water have both implemented hosepipe bans affecting thousands of households and local enterprises throughout our area. Garden centres, landscaping firms, and those in the trades—including builders managing projects like loft conversion work or loft refurbishment schemes—face complications as water restrictions tighten. Even Guilford builders and construction teams must adapt their practices, potentially delaying projects that require water for concrete work or dust suppression.
Local restaurants, pubs, and hospitality venues that depend on reliable water supply are also watching the situation closely. These aren’t abstract statistics; they’re our neighbours’ livelihoods hanging in the balance. River levels have dropped significantly, affecting businesses and ecosystems that depend on these waterways.
What Residents Must Know and How You Can Help
Emergency services are issuing urgent appeals to residents across Kent, Sussex, and Surrey. With dry grass, parched woodland, and record heat levels creating ideal conditions for wildfires, every single person in our community plays a vital role in prevention. Emergency officials are specifically asking residents to avoid activities that could spark fires—no barbecues in risky locations, no discarding glass that could magnify sunlight, and careful disposal of cigarettes.
Multiple heat health alerts have been issued throughout the summer, and forecasters expect August to remain warm and dry. If you’re vulnerable to heat—elderly relatives, those with health conditions, or very young children—check on them regularly and ensure they have access to cool spaces and hydration.
Prepare for potential water restrictions by storing water safely, fixing any leaks immediately, and reducing non-essential water use now. The Environment Agency expects status changes in coming days, meaning official drought could arrive soon. Stay informed through local news updates, follow guidance from South East Water and Thames Water, and support local businesses adapting to these challenges. Report any signs of fires immediately to emergency services. Our region has weathered challenges before, but this one requires community-wide commitment.
Source: Satellite images show dry weather impact on Kent, Sussex and Surrey
