Relief from the recent heat is expected across western Europe this week, bringing more unsettled conditions and a chance of rain. Temperatures are forecast to return towards seasonal norms, with some areas of the UK potentially falling about 3C below normal by Thursday. This drop, exceeding 15C compared to last Thursday's heat, may make it feel surprisingly chilly.
Substantial rain is anticipated for the south of the UK this week as a cold front moves in from the Atlantic between Monday night and Tuesday. As of Monday, a Met Office weather station in Wisley, Surrey, recorded 62 consecutive days without rainfall, with the last recorded rainfall on 16 June amounting to just 0.4mm.
Further unsettled weather is expected from Wednesday into the weekend, as low pressure crosses the UK, potentially bringing frequent sharp showers and thundery downpours. Even a few significant bursts of rain could notably impact the environment after the prolonged dry spell.