UK Heatwave Gives Way to Rain as Britain Faces Most Changeable Weather in Weeks

The UK is set for a major change in weather this week, with rain, strong winds and possible thunderstorms replacing the recent heatwave. Forecasters say a southward moving jet stream will bring low pressure across the country, causing temperatures to fall and conditions to become increasingly unsettled. It is expected to be the UK’s most changeable spell of weather since June.

Rain is expected to spread across the country, with some areas facing heavy downpours and thunderstorms. Temperatures will drop significantly from last week’s highs, when the UK recorded 38.1C at Kew Gardens, its hottest day of the year. The rainfall could provide some relief after months of exceptionally dry conditions. Nearly 71% of England is officially in drought, with around 45 million people affected and millions facing water use restrictions.

However, forecasters warn that a few days of rain will not immediately end the drought. Rivers, reservoirs and groundwater levels remain low, meaning prolonged rainfall will be needed to significantly improve water supplies. The unsettled weather is also expected to ease some of the wildfire risk that has accompanied the recent heatwave, although authorities remain cautious because vegetation remains extremely dry. Despite the cooler and wetter conditions, the Met Office’s longer range outlook suggests another spell of warmer weather could develop later in August, meaning the UK’s summer of extreme weather may not be over yet.