The UK is set to welcome fresher conditions as the recent baking heat gives way to cooler temperatures and sporadic rain throughout the week. The Met Office confirmed that Saturday marked the end of the sweltering heatwave that has gripped the nation, with temperatures nearing 30°C in south-east England. This week, rain is expected across the country, accompanied by lower temperatures.
Rain and Thunderstorms Expected
Rain will be most frequent and heaviest in northern and western areas, while the east and southeast remain mostly clear. Met Office Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer stated: 'We're now starting to see this spell of very hot weather break down. Many areas will begin to feel fresher conditions as a weak cold front moves southeast and becomes more established across most of the UK. As the heat starts to ease, the weather will also turn more changeable, with some showers and thunderstorms possible.'
London's Daily Rain Forecast
London, however, will see rain forecast every single day this week until Friday. Temperatures are expected to be closer to average than in recent days. Met Office meteorologist Greg Dewhurst noted: 'It's been quite a dry period of weather and a hot period of weather, so it will be probably much-needed and much welcome rain to gardeners, growers and farmers with the ground being so dry at the moment. So it is a change, but probably a welcome change for those who either don't like the heat or want some rain.'
Previous Heat Records
Last week, the record for the hottest temperature was broken in England and Wales, with Kew Gardens in London reaching 35.1°C. The UK's humid air often makes temperatures feel more intense than in continental Europe. Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon explained: 'Meteorologically, the UK air tends to be more humid compared to that in continental Europe. High humidity can make it harder for sweat to evaporate, which is how we naturally cool ourselves down.'
This more changeable pattern is likely to continue into next week, with further spells of rain or showers moving across the UK but broken up with brighter intervals. The rain is expected to be a welcome relief for many, especially those who have endured the intense heat.
