The UK is expecting its fifth heatwave of the year this week.
The Environment Agency has declared drought across:
- East Anglia
- Hertfordshire and the whole of London
- Thames Valley
- Hampshire and the Isle of Wight
- Devon and Cornwall
- the West Midlands
- Wessex, covering Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, and South Gloucestershire
Natural Resources Wales has declared drought across the whole of Wales.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency shows water scarcity across much of the country.
Europe
The rest of Europe is not faring much better. In Western Europe, the average temperature record for the June-July period was the highest seen.
The world
Across the world, the highest average sea surface temperature for July was recorded. Plus, the average surface air temperature globally was 16.9°C, making it the joint second-warmest July on record.
Crops
Supply of crops is expected to become more irregular with this trend continuing to Spring 2027. Crops may be discoloured, be smaller in size and suffer premature deterioration. Total yields will almost certainly decrease.
Potatoes
Potatoes can become stressed at prolonged temperatures over 23°c and can stop growing entirely when temperatures reach 30°c. Not only that, but to harvest potatoes in an efficient manner requires the ground to be soft. Harvesting in parched, hard ground can lead to damage and breakage.
Brassica
The yield of broccoli has halved, with cauliflowers likely to go short in the coming weeks.
Peas
The harvest of English peas is down by a third. But Scottish pea growers are currently expecting an average harvest.
Carrots
Almost all carrots consumed in Britain are grown in Britain. As with potatoes, when temperatures reach 30°c carrots can stop growing. Harvesting is due to begin in September, and it is thought that stock may begin to run out in early spring.
Olives
Olive growers expect a surge in the price of olives and olive oil due to the combination of heat and drought, but also wildfire.
Keep up to date
At Four Seasons Fruiterers, we will, of course, do our best to bring you the best local and international produce available.
We encourage you to review menus and promotions to make sure you can meet the expectations of your guests without compromising on quality.
And as always, follow us on social media to keep up to date with seasonal produce, crop updates and specials.
Thank you for your patience in these unprecedented circumstances.