A brief pause in the extreme heat is expected this Monday, though temperatures are set to climb again across England and Wales as the country braces for its fifth heatwave of the year. The upcoming week looks largely dry, continuing a trend that has seen parts of southern England go nearly two months without significant rainfall.
The National Drought Group, consisting of water companies, regulators, and government representatives, will meet Monday to assess whether more regions should be officially designated as being in drought. Water resources remain strained by the prolonged dry spell and high demand, with hosepipe bans currently affecting 23 million people. The Environment Agency reports that river and reservoir levels are falling, with five reservoirs classified as exceptionally low.
Agriculture is also feeling the impact, as the National Farmers Union warns that sustained dry weather may result in food shortages. While the Met Office notes that north-west Scotland received substantial rainfall recently, the rest of the UK remains very dry. Rainfall across England has been minimal, with less than 10mm recorded for seven weeks running.
Heat-health alerts remain active across much of England. While Monday will feel fresher with highs between 18C and 27C, temperatures will begin to rise again on Tuesday. By Thursday, the heatwave is expected to peak, with southern and central England seeing temperatures as high as 36C. If reached, this would mark the fourth consecutive month with such temperatures, setting a new record. Nights are also expected to remain warm, with the possibility of tropical nights where temperatures do not drop below 20C.