The UK's sweltering summer has been marked by scorching temperatures and prolonged droughts, but forecasters warn that a dramatic shift in the weather is on the horizon. Temperatures are expected to plummet from Monday onwards, bringing much-needed rain to parched regions and ending the record-breaking heatwave.
According to the Met Office, the country will experience a significant drop in temperatures, with the warmest areas seeing highs of 28-30°C before the cooler air arrives. Central and western regions are likely to be hit hardest by the change, with a higher chance of showers and thunderstorms expected from Monday onwards.
The Met Office has issued no specific warnings for thunderstorms, but advises the public to stay updated on forecasts, as heavy downpours and lightning could accompany the change in conditions. This increased risk of severe weather brings concerns about localised flooding and travel disruption, particularly where dry ground is unable to absorb excessive rainfall.
Looking ahead to next week, forecasters predict a return to more typical British summer weather, with temperatures settling in the low 20s Celsius across most of England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to see slightly cooler averages between 17-20°C, while wind speeds remain light to moderate at around 10-15 mph.
The weekend will offer a final chance for those in southern regions to bask in the last remnants of the heatwave, with temperatures potentially peaking near 30°C. However, further north, temperatures will be slightly lower but still warm before the cooler air pushes through. Wales and Northern Ireland can expect a gradual cooling from Monday, accompanied by increased cloud cover and light rain.