Drought conditions continue across most of England and all of Wales, despite recent rainfall making the period from late August to early September the wettest week since early February, according to the Environment Agency.
Water companies are reminding customers that temporary hosepipe bans remain in effect, even with the increased rainfall and cooler weather reducing demand. The National Drought Group has noted that water storage "continued to decline at most reservoirs."
While more rain is forecast this week, the Environment Agency suggests that "further significant rainfall is needed" to return to normal conditions. The long-range forecast does not currently indicate significant rainfall across England and Wales for at least the next month to alleviate the drought.
Rainfall totals varied significantly in the first week of September. Parts of Scotland saw half their average September rainfall, while southern England and south Wales were largely dry, with some locations recording less than a millimetre of rain.
Temperatures this week are expected to be around the early September average of 17 to 21C, potentially warming slightly later in the week in the south-east to the mid-20s Celsius. Gales are expected in western Scotland, with blustery conditions extending to northern and eastern England into Wednesday.