The UK's blistering heatwave is finally starting to break, with forecasters warning of a rapid drop in temperatures across the country by the end of this week. The Met Office predicts cooler, more unsettled weather will dominate the coming days, bringing welcome relief to many after weeks of sweltering conditions.
According to current projections, the change will become apparent for many by Friday, with widespread drops in temperature expected over the weekend. This shift will usher in a period of increased cloud cover, higher chances of rainfall, and stronger winds – a far cry from the clear skies and still conditions that have defined the heatwave.
Regionally, the onset of cooler weather will vary. Western parts of the UK may experience the change sooner, with showers and reduced temperatures likely from Thursday. Eastern and south-eastern areas, however, are expected to hold onto warmer conditions for slightly longer – but even in these regions, temperatures will drop significantly by Saturday.
England's South East can expect highs that have recently reached 28-30 degrees Celsius to fall to the low 20s or high teens by Sunday. Northern England and the Midlands will see a similar pattern, with average temperatures settling around 17-20 degrees Celsius. Scotland and Northern Ireland, which have also experienced warmer-than-average conditions, will see temperatures drop to between 14-18 degrees Celsius, accompanied by an increased likelihood of rain and wind speeds potentially reaching 20-30 mph in exposed areas. Wales can expect a return to more typical autumnal conditions, with temperatures in the mid-to-high teens and a greater chance of precipitation.
The Met Office advises the public to prepare for this change, noting that while the heat has posed challenges for some, the shift to cooler weather could also bring its own issues – such as localised flooding if heavy rainfall occurs on parched ground. Staying updated with the latest forecasts is recommended, especially for those with outdoor plans over the weekend.