The Environment Agency announced the drought status, covering seven areas of England including East Anglia, which covers Essex, as well as much of central, eastern and southern England.
The declaration follows what is expected to be one of the driest Julys on record.
So far, England has seen just seven per cent of its typical rainfall for the month, while some parts of the south have recorded only one per cent.
Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency, said: “The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it.
“A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife and the economy.
“We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated during the hot weather but every drop we can save is a drop more for nature and agriculture.”
The drought comes despite a wet winter that had replenished reservoirs and groundwater.
However, recent high temperatures and a prolonged lack of rain have led to rapidly declining water supplies.
It is the second drought in as many years and the third in five years, with previous events in 2022, 2025, and now 2026.
The Environment Agency said almost a third of England is experiencing “prolonged dry status.”
The latest heatwave, the fourth of the summer, has pushed temperatures into the 30s in many regions.
Record-breaking heat has already been recorded this year.
The Met Office confirmed a new June temperature record of 38C, set on June 26 at Lingwood in Norfolk.
This extreme weather has contributed to wildfires, damaged crops, harmed river ecosystems, and triggered hosepipe bans.
There are currently three hosepipe bans in force in Essex.
Anglian Water’s hosepipe ban covers parts of mid and north Essex while Affinity Water and Thames Water restrictions cover the Epping Forest district.
Water minister Emma Hardy said: “Our climate is changing, droughts are becoming increasingly common, and we need to be prepared for this new normal.
“We’re delivering long-term change in the water industry and driving record investments in infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs.
“We expect water companies to follow their drought plans, to go further and faster to reduce leaks, and to ensure supplies are not disrupted even in the driest of weather.”
