Following a period of severe drought and devastating wildfires, Britain is now bracing for the risk of flash floods as torrential rain and thunder are forecast across many parts of the country. The ground, rendered hard and dry by successive heatwaves, may be unable to absorb the expected downpours, leading to potential surface water flooding.
Meteorologists predict the worst of the weather will occur on Thursday, with heavy and thundery showers moving south from Scotland. While some areas will experience intense rainfall, others may remain dry, with London and South East England expected to stay largely sunny.
Temperatures are forecast to reach highs in the low 20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit) in southern England and Wales, and the high teens (60s F) in northern areas, which are typical for the British summer. Widespread rain began arriving late Monday and continued with showers on Tuesday, particularly in northern regions.
"Many areas in England and Wales are desperate for rain, this week some of these areas will see the first meaningful rain for a long time," said Mike Silverstone, the Met Office’s deputy chief forecaster. He added that while some showers could be intense, there is a chance of surface water flooding due to the dry and hard ground.
The recent heatwaves have led to drought conditions being declared in two-thirds of England and all of Wales. This has resulted in widespread wildfires, including one that destroyed 19 homes in Stourbridge, West Midlands. The heat also led to the hottest day of the year on August 15, with temperatures reaching 38.1C (100.6F).
July was the driest month on record for England and Wales, with some areas experiencing nearly two months without rain. The prolonged dry spell has led to water restrictions for over 27 million people, with Wessex Water implementing a hosepipe ban.
Looking ahead, unsettled conditions with rain or showers and strengthening winds are predicted towards the Bank Holiday weekend. However, the Met Office has not ruled out the possibility of further heatwaves in September, with "warm, humid spells" and potential late-season heatwaves expected, especially in the south.