Rain Returns This Weekend, But Drought Risk Remains for Parts of UK
Daniel Hughes
After weeks of predominantly dry conditions, parts of the UK are set to receive some much-needed rain this weekend. However, forecasters warn it will not be enough to prevent a slide towards more widespread drought conditions, particularly in southern England.
- Most of England has seen less than 10mm of rain since mid-June, with some areas recording as little as 3mm.
- A Thames Water hosepipe ban is now in effect, alongside other bans in the south of the UK.
- A rare westward shift in high pressure will bring rain to the UK this weekend, with western Scotland and northern hills seeing the most.
- Southern and eastern England are expected to receive only a few millimetres of rain, with some areas potentially missing out entirely.
- The upcoming rainfall is unlikely to alleviate the significant rainfall deficits or prevent further drought declarations.
Parts of England and Wales have been left parched after months without significant rainfall, with some areas facing their driest spell on record. In Surrey, Wisley has recorded a staggering 36 consecutive days without rain, while most of Wales has seen less than 25mm fall since mid-June.
The dry spell has prompted water companies to impose hosepipe bans, including Thames Water's restriction which came into force yesterday, joining existing restrictions in other southern UK regions. Despite the prolonged drought conditions, Met Office forecasts indicate a significant shift this weekend with the arrival of rain. A rare atmospheric phenomenon known as retrogression is expected to bring 5-10mm of rain to Northern Ireland, northern England, and north Wales.
However, those living in the Midlands, southern, and eastern parts of England will see only light and sporadic rainfall, with some areas potentially missing out on rain altogether. Experts warn that even this modest amount of rain will not be enough to reverse the trend towards more widespread drought conditions.
Next week, rainfall is predicted to shift north-westwards, with the Highlands facing wet conditions by the end of the week. Conversely, little or no rain is expected for southern and eastern parts of the country. Further ahead, into August, there is a possibility of another heatwave developing in Spain and France, though its impact on the UK remains uncertain.
Why this matters: The sustained dry weather and impending drought declarations have significant implications for water resources, agriculture, and the environment across the UK. The limited rainfall forecast highlights the ongoing challenge in replenishing water levels.
What this means for you: What this means for you: If you live in areas under a hosepipe ban, you must adhere to the restrictions. Even with some rain, continued water conservation is crucial, especially in southern and eastern England, to help manage diminishing water supplies.