UK farmers have warned that prolonged drought and repeated heatwaves are damaging crops, raising concerns over potential shortages of some food products and prompting calls for greater government support.
The warning comes as temperatures are forecast to reach 34C, with heat health alerts in place across eight regions of England, Caliber.Az reports, citing British media.
The government says drought conditions now affect around half of England.
The National Farmers' Union (NFU) said crops including wheat and oats have been badly affected by the lack of rainfall. NFU president Tom Bradshaw said:
He added:
Calling for investment in water infrastructure, Mr Bradshaw said:
He also urged ministers to introduce tax incentives to help farmers build water storage facilities.
According to the Met Office, England recorded just 5.6mm of rainfall up to 30 July—around 8% of the long-term average for the month and lower than the previous July record low set in 1911.
The extreme weather is also affecting dairy farming, with higher temperatures reducing cows' appetite and milk production.
Sophie Gregory, a dairy farmer in Dorset, said:
She said farmers were using shade, fans, misting systems and extra drinking water to protect livestock, adding:
By Aghakazim Guliyev
