Almost three-quarters of England, 71.3%, is now in drought, the country's Environment Agency said in a press release on Sunday.
The situation has worsened since July 29, when the agency reported that more than 50% of England, a country known for its wet climate, was in drought.
The agency said the affected area now covers about 45 million people, or 80% of England's population, with more than 27 million subject to water use restrictions.
Driest July on record
England recorded its driest July on record, with rainfall ranging from just 1% of the expected average in southeastern England to 26% in the northwest. Some areas, including the Isle of Wight in the south, have gone 59 days without rain.
The agency said the drought is worsening rapidly because of both low rainfall and higher temperatures, with highs of 35 degrees Celsius expected again in some parts of England midweek.
Call to save water
Tori Grayling, chair of the National Drought Group, said everyone's help was needed to cut water use so current supplies last as long as possible. Every drop saved is an extra drop for farmers, wildlife and rivers, she said.
Drought conditions and high temperatures are also fueling wildfires. More than 120 firefighters were deployed on Sunday to bring a fire in the New Forest, in southern England, under control.
