UK Weather: Rain, Thunderstorms, and Flooding This Week
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Rain to Return This Week with Storms and Flooding
Image source: Anadolu via Getty Images
By Sarah Keith-Lucas, Lead Weather Presenter
Published 8 minutes ago
The UK's weather is poised for a significant shift as rain returns, bringing the prospect of thunderstorms and localised flooding. While some areas might experience showery conditions by Tuesday, widespread and persistent rain is expected from Wednesday onwards, originating from the south.
Rain and Temperatures on the Rise
This wet weather is a welcome relief for parched regions, but substantial additional rainfall is necessary to alleviate drought conditions. Warm air moving in could push midweek highs close to 30°C (86°F) in certain locations.
Storms and Flood Risk
Starting from midweek, the risk of thunderstorms and torrential downpours will increase, particularly in southern England and Wales. Heavy rain on dry ground may lead to localised flooding. The threat persists until Friday, with varying amounts of rainfall expected across most areas.
Drought Recovery
While this week's rainfall is beneficial, it will take time for water levels to recover fully. According to the British Geological Survey (BGS), "significant, cumulative rainfall over a period of time" is required to end a drought officially. Despite some resilience shown by groundwater stores, only eight out of 35 sites recently surveyed have notably low levels.
Warmth Before Cooler Temperatures
Despite the rainy forecast, warmer air from southern Europe will return, with temperatures reaching around 20°C in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and potentially hitting 28-29°C in England and Wales' south-east. However, this heat is expected to be short-lived, and temperatures are unlikely to reach heatwave thresholds before late August.
Long-Range Forecast
Some computer models suggest higher pressure building into mid-September, potentially bringing warmer air back to the UK. The highest temperatures are anticipated in southern England, as indicated by the monthly outlook.