Norfolk farmer forced to build reservoir as England faces 'nationally significant' drought
Officials warn of major water shortfalls as prolonged heatwaves hit farming across the region
As England endures its fourth heatwave of the summer, farmers in Norfolk are feeling the harsh effects of ongoing dry weather, with officials warning of "nationally significant" water shortfalls that are putting crops, livestock, and livelihoods at risk.
A new alert from the National Drought Group, which includes the Met Office, government, and utility companies, highlights the widespread agricultural impact of the prolonged dry spell. The report points to "widespread agricultural impacts, hitting crop yields, reducing feed for livestock and increasing wildfires."
Local farmer Patrick, who lives and works near King's Lynn, shared his experience: “We’re investing in a reservoir which will hopefully be ready next year. It’s expensive to build and run but unfortunately it’s becoming more of a necessity," he explained. “We seem to spend a lot of energy, time and effort during times of heavy rainfall getting rid of water out to sea to stop flooding, we need resources to store it. We’re not short of water, it just comes at the wrong time.”
Farmers across the region echo Patrick’s concerns, as they struggle to balance water management with unpredictable weather patterns. The drought has forced many to reconsider water storage solutions and invest in infrastructure to better cope with future dry spells.