France: French livestock farmers ration feed as severe drought strains supplies.

SHOTLIST: MONTBRISON, FRANCE (JULY 23, 2026) 1. VARIOUS OF DRONE SHOTS OF WILTED FIELDS AND CATTLE GRAZING 2. VARIOUS OF CATTLE, DRIED CROPS, WATER HOSE, TREE, BALES OF HAY MONTBRISON, FRANCE - JULY 23, 2026: Livestock farmers in central France began rationing animal feed on Thursday, July 23, as a severe drought affecting much of the country put increasing pressure on fodder supplies. Agricultural authorities urged producers to conserve every available supply of feed as strict water restrictions remained in effect across most French departments. The prolonged dry spell has rapidly depleted winter feed reserves, raising concerns about feed availability in the coming months. According to national weather agency Meteo-France, average soil moisture levels recorded in early July dropped to their lowest point for this time of year, falling below levels measured during the historic 1976 drought. Nearly all mainland French departments have been placed under drought monitoring, with dozens reaching the highest crisis level in one of the country's most widespread drought episodes in recent years.