Topic overview
In brief
- July 2022 was the driest month for England and Wales in 190 years.
- A hosepipe ban was implemented in London due to the drought's severity.
- Photographer Jason Hawkes captured the transformation of London's parks, highlighting the urgent need for environmental conservation.
Summary
In July 2022, England and Wales experienced their driest month on record, with no rainfall recorded at the Kew Gardens weather station. This unprecedented drought led to a hosepipe ban in London, highlighting the severe impact on the city's green spaces. Aerial photographer Jason Hawkes, who has been capturing images of London for over 35 years, noted the stark transformation of the city's parks, which have turned straw-coloured due to the lack of water. He remarked on the contrast between the barren parks and the still-green rooftop terraces, which remain vibrant despite the drought.
Hawkes expressed his astonishment at the changes he observed from the air, particularly in Hyde Park, which he described as looking 'mental' due to its barren appearance. He also mentioned that Primrose Hill, usually lush and green, has taken on a drastically different look. The photographer recalled a similar drought four years prior but emphasized that the current situation is more widespread across the South East of England.