UK weather patterns are set to change this week, following a summer that saw record-breaking heat and prolonged dry conditions. Wisley in Surrey has recorded 60 consecutive days without rainfall, with most areas of England and Wales currently in drought.
Some rain is forecast, beginning lightly in northern areas on Monday. By Tuesday and Wednesday, this rain is expected to become heavier and move into southern England. However, this rainfall is not anticipated to significantly improve the drought conditions, with weeks of above-average rainfall needed into autumn for substantial change.
Temperatures will also turn noticeably cooler. While Monday and Tuesday may still see highs of 20-26C in England and Wales, temperatures across the UK are expected to be around 2-4C below average by the end of the week. Night-time temperatures could fall to single figures, potentially as low as 3 or 4C in parts of southern England by Friday morning.
The cooler and wetter conditions are likely to provide some relief to emergency services, who have been dealing with extreme weather and wildfires. Forecasts from Natural England and the Met Office indicate that the fire severity index will decrease to low or moderate.