Drought in the UK: farmers are facing extreme weather conditions

In the current season, farmers in England and Wales faced the driest July since records began in 1836. In many parts of the country, rainfall levels did not exceed one-tenth of the long-term average. Jamie Burrows, a representative of the National Farmers' Union, noted that the early completion of winter wheat harvesting in July was a direct reflection of the severe conditions of the growing season. Authorities classify the situation as extremely serious, pointing out that this is the third drought in the last five years.

Against the backdrop of climate challenges, experts emphasize the need for investments in breeding cultivars resistant to drought and disease, as well as the simplification of procedures for establishing water storage systems on farms. Insurance risk assessment specialist Rowan Douglas notes the absence of a comprehensive crop insurance system in the UK. According to his data, losses from extreme weather events in EU countries already reach 28 billion euros annually, and without accounting for risks, this figure could increase by 2050.

Individual agricultural producers, such as Tom Pearson from Cambridgeshire, are attempting to adapt by implementing regenerative agriculture methods. Practices include minimizing tillage, reducing the use of chemicals, and testing ancient wheat cultivars such as emmer and spelt, which are historically adapted to water shortages. Despite a reduction in fuel costs, farmers are recording a decline in yield for the third consecutive year, which threatens the profitability of the business.

The situation is complicated by the volatility of the input market. In the spring, the cost of fertilizer and fuel rose sharply due to disruptions in global supply chains caused by the closure of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz following US and Israeli strikes on Iran at the end of February. At the moment, agricultural producers are insisting on the need to obtain accurate data on the most viable crop cultivars under drought conditions and support measures aimed at improving soil stability.