Although bookended by unsettled conditions, August rainfall was below average for the UK and high temperatures mid-month (11th-15th) contributed to warmer than average conditions overall. August caps a hot, dry summer; the warmest June-August on record for the UK since 1884. River flows were in the normal range in western Scotland and the far southeast of England but widely below normal and notably low elsewhere. Drought impacts were extensive - low flows caused ecological stress (fish mortalities), and dry soils reduced crop yields and exacerbated wildfires (e.g. North Yorkshire Moors). Widespread hands-off flow restrictions affected agriculture whilst navigation was heavily impacted by canal closures and restrictions. Reservoir stocks declined nationally and were >30% below average at Derwent Valley (Severn Trent), Washburn (Yorkshire), Elan Valley (Wales) and Ardingly (West Sussex); some (e.g. East Lothian, Washburn and Bristol) registered new August minima. Groundwater levels fell across the UK with exceptionally low levels in some southern and eastern boreholes but remained above normal in north Wales and central England. Drought status was declared for south-east Wales on the 14th, north Wales on the 29th and remained in place for north-west England, the Midlands and Yorkshire (where drought permit applications have been made). “Significant water scarcity” was issued for parts of eastern Scotland on the 28th. The latest Hydrological Outlook suggests normal to above normal autumn flows in the north-west but continued below normal flows across southern and eastern areas. September started with welcome rainfall that eased some pressures on agriculture but sustained wet weather over autumn and winter, a crucial period for replenishing water resources, will be necessary to reverse deficits established through 2025.