UK farmers are raising alarm over crops rotting in waterlogged fields after an exceptionally wet start to the year, compounding losses from ongoing flooding and relentless rainfall. In parts of southern England, particularly Devon, Cornwall and Reading, rain has fallen nearly every day since the end of December, contributing to one of the wettest Januarys on record and leaving muddy, flooded fields that are unworkable for planting or harvesting.
The continuous downpours have led to widespread flooding, disrupted farm operations and prompted nearly 100 flood warnings across the country. Livestock farmers have had to move animals to higher ground as fields turn to bog, while arable farmers report seeds and young crops deteriorating in saturated soils.
Agricultural groups, including the National Farmers Union, warn that prolonged wet conditions could see significant sections of arable land lost before crops can mature, threatening yields and incomes this season. Scientists link the unprecedented rainfall to a changing climate that fuels more intense and persistent wet weather.
With more rain forecast and soils still saturated, farmers are urging government support to manage flood risk, improve water infrastructure and bolster climate resilience to protect future harvests. News as reported
