The Environment Agency has changed the status of Bristol, Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire to prolonged dry weather.
Neighbouring parts of Gloucestershire and Hampshire, which also fall under the Environment Agency’s Wessex operational area, are also in a period of prolonged dry weather.
The announcement follows a combination of high temperatures and low rainfall, prompting concerns about the impact on the environment.
Matt Akers, environment planning and engagement manager at the Environment Agency, said: “There’s been a big difference in the environment in the past month.
“June had 132 per cent of its typical rainfall.
“This month we’ve had less than on per cent so far.
“We are seeing low river flows in places like the Hampshire Avon and water temperatures of 24C, which is almost tropical.
“The Environment Agency is keeping a close eye on the situation and remains ready to respond to incidents created by these conditions.”
Officers are expecting more environmental incidents this summer due to low river flows, rising water temperatures, and fish struggling for oxygen as weeds and algal blooms thrive in these conditions.
Water levels at groundwater monitoring sites are now starting to become below normal, and in some cases, are classified as notably low.
Despite a wet start to 2026, from March to May the West Country recorded below-average rainfall.
Although June saw above-average totals, 82 per cent of the rain fell during the first ten days of the month, and not consistently across the region.
The Environment Agency has already responded to incidents, including helping move hundreds of fish from the River Tarrant in Dorset to a safer location.
Plans for weed cutting and vegetation removal are also being planned.
Residents and businesses are being urged to use water wisely to reduce pressure on the environment.
The Environment Agency supports the ‘Let’s Save Water’ campaign, which encourages people to take simple steps to conserve water.
Tips include taking shorter showers, fixing household leaks, using a washing-up bowl, and switching to eco modes on appliances.
People are also asked to swap hosepipes for buckets or watering cans.
The National Drought Group, which includes the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, and conservation experts, is closely monitoring the situation.
Up-to-date information on drought conditions in England is available in the Dry weather and drought in England: summary reports and how drought is managed in England.
