Record-dry July in Ireland and extreme heat across Europe — including the UK’s hottest summer on record and one of France’s longest, strongest heatwaves — have severely damaged pastures and corn crops. Farmers are drawing down winter hay and silage stocks early as parched fields cut feed availability. Spot feed prices have surged, prompting some producers to consider culling herds. Heat stress is also reducing milk yields, with effects likely to transmit to processors and consumers.