Dry spell set to last at least another week

THE UK's current dry spell is set to last a while longer, the Met Office believes.

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A persistent area of high pressure has been dominating the country since the end of February. While it has brought an early-season tourism and shopping boost to many areas, the lack of rain is worrying farmers and gardeners.

According to the Met Office, the “blocking high” has been reinforced by an amplified jet stream, trapping high pressure and helping to prevent other weather systems moving in. This week millions of households were put on drought alert amid fears of summer water shortages.