Thousands of revellers have begun setting up camp at the Reading Festival, braving persistent rain and forecasts of thunderstorms as the Bank Holiday weekend commences. An estimated 100,000 attendees are expected at the festival, which runs from Thursday, August 27 to Sunday, August 30, with headliners including Charli XCX, Florence + The Machine, and Chase & Status.
The festival's open-air setting faces a stark contrast to Britain's recent prolonged period of hot and dry weather, which has now concluded. Downpours began in Reading on Friday, with intermittent sunshine expected before heavier rain arrives on Saturday morning and continues through the evening. Sunday is expected to see light rain persist throughout the day and into Monday.
Despite the inclement weather, many festival-goers appeared undeterred, with many pictured smiling and laughing while clad in waterproof attire. Others were seen navigating muddy paths with suitcases, employing bin liners and other materials to shield their belongings from the wet conditions.
Similar weather patterns are affecting the concurrent Leeds Festival, with showers expected throughout Friday and into Saturday, followed by heavier rain on Sunday. Social media posts from attendees at both festivals reflect a mix of dismay and resigned humor regarding the forecast.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for rain and thunderstorms. These alerts cover parts of Wales and southern England for Thursday and Friday, with Friday's warning focusing on eastern coastal areas. The warnings indicate the potential for heavy rain, lightning, and hail as a band of rain moves northwestward and thunderstorms are anticipated to move in from France.
