Images from the Copernicus Sentinel-3 satellite reveal the transformation in colour of northern Europe from lush green to scorched brown.

A video shows two images captured by the satellite almost a month apart. The first, from the end of June, is predominantly green, with healthy vegetation. However, the second, captured on 25 July, is mainly brown, showing just how much the vegetation has changed owing to the long hot dry spell Europe has endured.

More detailed imagery posted by Twitter use Gary Walsh shows the vast difference in fields across Ireland’s east coast when compared with the same time last year.

Met Éireann has issued a yellow rain warning for the entire Leinster area, with 25mm to 40mm of rain forecast. Many farmers will be hoping the much-needed moisture will see vegetation begin to grow again.

Read more

Northern Europe scorched by lack of moisture