The northern UK tends to be much wetter than the south, but this summer that pattern is being flipped on its head.

Water levels in much of Scotland are very low with some rivers breaking records, while southern England is mostly healthy after a very wet spring. The UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology warns of increased risk of drought affecting farmers and nature. One North Wales farmer told BBC News he has already almost lost a crop.

Meanwhile, experts at the Wildlife Trusts say they are seeing signs of stressed nature. But current forecasts suggest the UK is unlikely to face drinking water shortages or hosepipe bans this summer.

However, “vigilance is still required” in the southeast after demand for water in the recent heatwave may have depleted supplies, explains Jamie Hannaford, UKCEH Group Leader for Hydrological Status and Outlooks.

READ MORE: BBC