Fears of drought in Europe as May 2025 Is second-hottest ever recorded worldwide

Concerns about drought are growing in Europe after an exceptionally dry spring, especially in the northwest and central regions. Globally, May 2025 was the second-warmest May ever recorded.

Data from Copernicus, the European Union’s Earth observation programme, shows that May was 1.4°C warmer than the pre-industrial average and 0.53°C above the 1991–2020 average. The lack of rain and high temperatures have led to critically low soil moisture and low river levels across much of Northern and Western Europe, including the United Kingdom, Germany, the Benelux countries, and Scandinavia.

Concerns over water shortages

There is increased concern about potential water shortages and crop failures, with some farmers already reporting losses. Major rivers such as the Rhine are experiencing falling water levels, impacting agriculture, transport, and energy production.

While Southern Europe (such as the Iberian Peninsula and Italy) had a wetter winter and better crop prospects, the majority of Europe is bracing for persistent drought into the summer, increasing risks for agriculture, ecosystems, and the economy.

Sea temperatures at record highs

Globally, record-high sea surface temperatures were measured in the northeastern part of the Atlantic Ocean in May, further highlighting the worsening climate crisis.

(PP with DC - Source: climate.copernicus.eu via The Guardian - Picture: @ Keagan Henman on Unsplash)