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On August 8, 2026, the United Kingdom faced a significant environmental crisis as official drought status was declared across extensive regions of England and Wales. This measure follows a sequence of unprecedented heatwaves that have placed water supplies under immense strain. Indeed, both nations experienced their driest July since records began. This persistent absence of rainfall, combined with an unusually warm spring, has severely impacted the natural environment. Rivers are reaching dangerously low levels, agricultural production is suffering, and local habitats are increasingly vulnerable. In response to these conditions, over twenty-five million residents are now subject to a hosepipe ban. This restriction prohibits the use of garden hoses for activities such as watering plants, washing windows, or filling domestic swimming pools. Defining a drought is a complex process; however, it is generally understood as a prolonged period of low rainfall. When these conditions persist, water levels in reservoirs and underground sources begin to decline. Environmental agencies must carefully evaluate these resources alongside meteorological forecasts to determine when official action is necessary. In certain regions, the concept of ‘water scarcity’ is increasingly relevant. This occurs when public demand for water outstrips the available supply, a situation that can arise even if rainfall was sufficient earlier in the year. A notable point of contention for experts is the contrast between recent record-breaking temperatures—often exceeding thirty degrees Celsius—and the previous winter, which was significantly wetter than average. This discrepancy has raised questions regarding the efficiency of current water management. To withstand the drier summers predicted by climate change models, experts argue that a substantial overhaul of national infrastructure is required. While Scotland and Northern Ireland currently face fewer restrictions, the situation in southern areas remains critical as the natural world continues to deteriorate. This crisis highlights the urgent need for individuals and governments to reassess how natural resources are valued. Rather than reacting only when a crisis occurs, there is a growing debate over whether stricter, year-round limits on water usage should be implemented to ensure long-term sustainability.

1. What is the primary focus of the article?

• A.The difference in weather patterns between England and Scotland.
• B.The causes and consequences of the current water shortage in the UK.
• C.The history of rainfall records in England and Wales.
• D.Technical methods used by environmental agencies to forecast weather.

2. Which of the following is prohibited under the current hosepipe ban?

• A.Drinking tap water during the day.
• B.Using a hose to clean the exterior of a house.
• C.Taking showers in domestic households.
• D.Operating public swimming pools.

3. What can be inferred about water management in the UK based on the text?

• A.The UK does not have enough reservoirs to collect winter rain.
• B.The government is prioritizing industrial water use over domestic use.
• C.Current systems might not be using winter rainfall efficiently enough to prevent summer shortages.
• D.Weather forecasts are not accurate enough to help environmental agencies.

4. How does ‘water scarcity’ differ from a general drought according to the passage?

• A.It only happens in the winter months.
• B.It is caused by natural habitats using too much water.
• C.It is based on the level of public demand compared to supply.
• D.It is a term only used in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

5. What does the word ‘outstrips’ mean in the third paragraph?

• A.Matches exactly.
• B.Exceeds or goes beyond.
• C.Follows closely.
• D.Reduces or limits.