A persistent heatwave has hit the UK, with specific regions experiencing double their typical July sunshine levels in under two weeks. Areas across southern and south-west England, including Yeovilton and Odiham, have documented roughly 152 hours of sunlight within the first 13 days of the month. This weather pattern, characterized by 10 consecutive days of heat exceeding 30C in locations such as Kew Gardens and Heathrow, affects the entire country, including Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
High pressure remains anchored over the country, suppressing cloud cover and limiting rainfall. Several regions in England have recorded no precipitation this month, and Wisley in Surrey has gone 27 days without rain. Consequently, over eight million households are subject to hosepipe bans, and the risk of wildfires remains high. While temperatures are expected to dip slightly over the weekend due to a shift in wind patterns—bringing highs between 22C and 28C—the cooling is likely to be temporary. Forecasts suggest that high pressure will return next week, bringing further dry conditions and rising temperatures.
