July 2026 becomes driest month in 190 years for England and Wales

England and Wales recorded their driest July in 190 years, according to meteorological records. The Kew Gardens weather station in southwest London registered no rainfall during the month, as reported by the BBC. The Met Office confirmed the figures, marking the first time since records began that such conditions have been observed.

The drought has visibly altered London’s landscape. Parks and public green spaces, typically lush and green, have turned straw-coloured. Photographer Jason Hawkes, who has documented the city from the air for over 35 years, said the transformation was striking. He told the BBC that Hyde Park appeared particularly barren from above, a sight he described as "mental".

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Impact on London’s green spaces

Hawkes noted that Primrose Hill, usually a vibrant green space, had also been affected. "Normally that’s incredibly green there, it’s mad," he said. The only areas remaining green were rooftop terraces, which he observed are rarely used. He compared the current conditions to a similar drought four years ago, though he said the impact this year was more widespread across the South East.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Hyde Park look so barren, it looks mental from the air.”

Jason Hawkes, photographer

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The capital experienced its longest dry spell in over a month, with a hosepipe ban in effect.

The drought prompted Thames Water to declare a hosepipe ban for London in July 2026. The ban restricts the use of hosepipes for watering gardens, washing cars, and filling paddling pools. Residents who breach the ban could face fines, though enforcement details remain unclear. The water company has not yet indicated when the restrictions might be lifted.

What happens next

The Met Office has not released a forecast for when rainfall might return to normal levels. Thames Water said it would continue to monitor reservoir levels and groundwater supplies before deciding whether to extend or lift the hosepipe ban. Residents are advised to check the company’s website for updates on restrictions and water-saving measures.

Hawkes, meanwhile, said the drought had at least one benefit for his work. "It’s quite nice because normally it’s freezing, I can wear shorts," he told the BBC. He also reflected on how much London has changed during his career, noting that the city’s skyline and infrastructure continue to evolve rapidly.