Drought: 52% of European Lands Affected in July

More than 50% of the land in Europe and the Mediterranean region was affected by drought between July 11 and 19, 2025, according to an analysis by the French Agency based on data from the European Drought Observatory (EDO).

This percentage, 51.9%, is 21 points above the average for the period 2012-2024 and the highest recorded for this time of year since 2012. The Copernicus drought index combines rainfall, soil moisture, and vegetation condition.

Eastern Europe and the Balkans are particularly affected. In Serbia, almost all land (99%) faces water scarcity, with 68% in a state of alert. Similarly, more than half of the land in Hungary, Bulgaria, and Romania are in a state of alert.

In Western Europe, the United Kingdom is facing severe drought, with 21% of the land in a state of alert. In Germany, this percentage increased from 9% to 26%. In France, 19% of the land, mainly in the western part, is in a state of alert.

Drought favors fires. Turkey is also facing water scarcity, with 76% of the country affected and 18% in a state of alert.

In contrast, Portugal and Spain have low drought rates (10% and 7%).