Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to bring a risk of flash flooding to various parts of the United Kingdom over the coming days. The wet weather is set to begin on Tuesday, with northern and central regions of the UK experiencing rainfall. Scotland and Northern Ireland will see persistent showers throughout much of Tuesday, with heavier spells anticipated in northeast Scotland and the Northern Isles.
Mid-Week Conditions
By Wednesday, a low-pressure system is forecast to move in, bringing sunny spells interspersed with frequent showers across northwest England, Northern Ireland, and southern Scotland. Some of these showers could become heavy and include thunder. Meanwhile, southeast England is expected to remain largely dry.
Widespread Showers and Drought Concerns
Thursday is predicted to see more widespread showers as the low pressure system moves southwards across the UK. These showers carry the potential for flash flooding in affected areas.
These unsettled conditions arrive as some areas of the UK have recently experienced drought or prolonged dry weather. Maps indicate that southern England, the East Midlands, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire have been particularly affected by drought conditions. Yorkshire and the northeast of England have been classified as having a 'prolonged dry weather status'.
Potential Heatwave Return
Despite the immediate forecast of heavy rain, there are early indications that heatwave conditions could return in September. This suggests a potential shift back to warmer weather after the current period of unsettled and potentially disruptive rainfall.