Flood alerts expected despite worst drought in a generation Forecasters say the stormy weather will continue to the end of this month in what could become one of the wettest Aprils on record. But experts insist that the expected downpours will not relieve the drought, which has been labelled the worst since 1976 when Britain experienced its worst drought for more than 100 years. The EA and water companies have said the wet weather would do little to relieve the drought. Experts say the water is used by thirsty plants, evaporates or runs off hard soil. Half of Britain is now in drought as the country faces its most severe water shortage, the EA has warned, with parts of the country are already drier than the summer of 1976. More than 35 million people are now living in drought-affected areas, with water shortages today declared across the Midlands and South West. The drought of 1976 led to standpipes being installed in residential streets, water supplies to businesses being rationed and schools having to close early. But on Monday residents throughout the south west of the country say that since the area was officially described as a "drought zone" last week, it has constantly rained. Showers swept across the region again today with Bournemouth's rain-lashed seafront was deserted in chilly 44.42F (6.9C) temperatures at lunchtime on Monday. This starkly contrasted with the same time last year, during which beaches were packed under 82F (28C) temperatures. Children in waterproofs ran along Bournemouth's promenade and parents were seen huddled with hot chocolates. It hasn't stopped raining and is a big contrast to a year ago - but gardeners are delighted. There's no need for hosepipes here," said Philip Barton, manager of Bournemouth's Menzies Carlton hotel. Peter and Janet Bishop, from Chichester, Hants, were making the most of the quiet beach with their grandchildren, Harry, four, and Emily, two. "We thought the weather was here to stay and didn't anticipate 'April showers' ringing true to its name," said Mr Bishop, a 66 year-old retired builder. We've got a fantastic bed and breakfast so it doesn't bother us, we're just wrapping up warm and are determined to enjoy ourselves. The children don't mind the wet and have even had us playing in the sand, despite our sandcastles being washed away quite quickly. Met Office forecaster Sarah Holland said it would continue to be wet for most of the week. She said: "Southern England could see in excess 50mm by Friday morning - a month's worth of rain in a week. An umbrella will be needed wherever you are in the UK this week. The Environment Agency's drought coordinator Polly Chancellor said the drought could last until Christmas despite the wet weather. "Soil is so dry that only steady rain over winter will restore rivers and groundwater," she said.