When is a drought not a drought? When it's an area of environmental stress due to rainfall deficit, of course. The less-than-catchy term to describe Britain's current state was suggested yesterday by the Environment Agency as it struggles with public perceptions over what "drought" really means.

When is a drought not a drought? When it's an area of environmental stress due to rainfall deficit, of course. The less-than-catchy term to describe Britain's current state was suggested yesterday by the Environment Agency as it struggles with public perceptions over what "drought" really means.

Water providers came under increased pressure from the industry watchdog today to ensure drought-stricken areas are helped by regions with more plentiful supplies.

The hosepipe bans have not been lifted just yet, but river levels are returning to normal

Committee says higher prices would encourage people not to waste resources in times of scarcity

A hosepipe ban for 20 million people in south and east England in the face of widespread drought has been followed by the wettest April on record.

High winds and driving rain have continued to batter Britain with the south suffering the worst of the April washout today.

Much of England and Wales will get a further soaking today, with strong winds and heavy downpours expected to hit tonight.

Parts of Britain might be in the middle of a drought, but some areas of England and Wales are braced for the possibility of flash floods this weekend as the deluge continues at the end of a week of heavy rain.

Much of England and Wales will experience further downpours today while strong winds of up to 60mph are set to batter parts of the UK over the weekend.

This week's heavy rain has not alleviated the drought gripping swathes of the country, the Environment Agency said today.

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Half of Britain is now officially in drought, in the worst national water shortage since 1976 – a situation that may last until Christmas or beyond.