The UK farming sector is increasingly at the mercy of the elements and is facing mounting challenges that go far beyond traditional seasonal unpredictability.
With torrential rains and prolonged periods of drought causing increased soil degradation and disrupted harvests, the impact of climate change is becoming impossible to ignore.
Russell Reeves, Partner and Head of Agricultural Litigation at Thrings, explores how extreme weather is affecting UK agriculture, and where legal and commercial support may be needed.
Climate change and extreme weather – a growing threat
Farmers have always adapted to the weather, but the scale and speed of change in recent years is unprecedented. Unpredictable seasons are disrupting planting and harvesting cycles, while increased rainfall is leading to waterlogged fields, crop loss, and soil erosion. At the other end of the spectrum, prolonged droughts are drying out soil, killing beneficial microorganisms, and making land more vulnerable to erosion when rain does return.
These extremes are contributing to long-term soil deterioration, reducing fertility and threatening the sustainability of farming practices. Livestock welfare is also under pressure, with heatwaves and storms creating new risks for animal health and safety.
Financially, the sector is exposed. Insurance premiums are rising, and many policies may not fully cover the losses caused by extreme weather events. The unpredictability of climate conditions is making long-term planning increasingly difficult.
Water management and flood risk
Flooding is fast becoming one of the most urgent threats to farm businesses. Poor drainage, saturated ground, and overflowing rivers are putting pressure on infrastructure and increasing the risk of crop failure and property damage.
The financial toll is staggering. In 2024 alone, extreme wet weather and flooding led to an estimated £1.19 billion loss in arable income, making it the third-worst harvest on record.
The land impact is equally concerning. Over half of England’s top-quality agricultural land is now at risk of flooding, with 60% of Grade 1 land located in Flood Zone 3 - areas most vulnerable to river and coastal flooding.
Farmers must also navigate new and more complex planning regulations, including the sequential test for flood zone development, which can affect diversification plans and land use.
Force Majeure – not a guaranteed safety net
Many farmers assume that force majeure clauses in contracts will protect them from liability when extreme weather disrupts operations. However, this is not always the case.
Force majeure must be explicitly defined in the contract. While some clauses include “acts of God” or “natural disasters,” others may not cover weather-related disruptions unless specifically stated. Moreover, events linked to climate change may be contested if they’re seen as foreseeable rather than truly unforeseen.
So, what can farmers do?
While no one can control the weather, there are practical steps farmers can take to build resilience:
Russell Reeves, Partner and Head of Agricultural Litigation at Thrings, said: “Farmers are increasingly facing the harsh reality that extreme weather events are no longer rare occurrences. They’re becoming part of the new normal. From flooding to prolonged droughts, these conditions are putting enormous pressure on land, livestock, and livelihoods. Legal preparedness and proactive risk management are now essential tools for resilience.”
Thrings’ Agriculture team is one of the largest of its kind in the UK with decades of experience in successfully supporting its farming and landowner clients to achieve their aims and the potential for their business. Its lawyers are ranked in the highest tier by both the prestigious Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners directories and have been chosen by the NFU to act for its members. To find out more and for advice, please do get in touch.