A drought has been declared across the whole of Wales, as the country experiences its driest July on record in nearly 190 years. The declaration, made by the Welsh government in coordination with natural resources authorities, covers all parts of the country, marking the first time such a widespread drought status has been applied. Officials say the drought conditions have been driven by prolonged below-average rainfall and high temperatures, with this July on course to be the driest since records began in the 19th century. The announcement comes amid deteriorating water levels in reservoirs and rivers, raising concerns for agriculture, wildlife, and public water supplies. The dry spell has also increased the risk of wildfires, and authorities have urged the public to use water sparingly and follow any local restrictions. While the drought declaration does not automatically impose legal limits, it triggers heightened monitoring and potential measures to manage water resources. The situation is expected to persist unless significant rainfall arrives in the coming weeks. Experts note that climate change is likely making such extreme dry periods more frequent and intense. Residents and businesses across Wales are advised to stay informed about local water conditions and to report any signs of environmental stress, such as fish distress or unusual plant die-back. The drought status will be reviewed regularly as weather patterns evolve.