Nearly half of the European Union and the UK faced drought conditions in late July 2026, according to a report from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC).
Data from the European Drought Observatory (EDO) show critical and warning-level drought conditions persisted and intensified across western, central and parts of eastern Europe, as well as the Balkans, Italy, Britain and Ireland. Prolonged rainfall shortages and unusually high temperatures, amplified by successive heatwaves, were the primary drivers.
Major rivers have dropped to low levels, soil moisture has declined sharply and vegetation and crops are under stress. Yields are expected to suffer, particularly in western and central regions. Large-scale wildfires continue to burn across the continent.
The JRC describes the event as a compound drought, in which precipitation deficits and extreme heat reinforce each other. Forecasts point to dry conditions remaining widespread in the months ahead.
Experts stress the need for ongoing monitoring and stronger adaptation measures.