BBC Weather is forecasting the first rainfall in London for several weeks, bringing relief from a heatwave that is expected to peak at 35C this week. The forecast indicates showers on Monday, August 17, with temperatures dropping to a more comfortable 23C, accompanied by light winds.
However, the Met Office cautions that long-range forecasts are subject to change. The predicted rain is not guaranteed, but if it arrives, it will provide a welcome break from the dry, hot conditions that have persisted.
Heatwave peaks on Thursday
Londoners are bracing for the hottest day of the week on Thursday, August 13, when temperatures could soar to 35C. Wednesday, August 12, is expected to reach 32C, while today (Tuesday, August 11) will see highs of 25C between 3pm and 4pm, remaining dry.
According to the BBC forecast, the heatwave will officially span three consecutive days—Wednesday, August 12, through Friday, August 14—since London's heatwave threshold is three days above 28C. After that, temperatures will ease to the mid-20s, with highs between 23C and 26C for the foreseeable future.
More heatwaves possible in September
The Met Office's long-range forecast suggests that high pressure will dominate the UK, leading to dry periods but also some unsettled interludes with showers or longer spells of rain. Overall rainfall is likely to be below average, and temperatures will remain above average, with potential for further heatwaves, especially in the south.
As the BBC forecast only extends to August 24, it is possible that heatwaves could return later in the month or into September. The Met Office notes: "High pressure will probably be dominant in the vicinity of the UK during this period, meaning periods of dry weather for many regions. However, some more unsettled or changeable interludes are probable at times, bringing showers or some longer spells of rain, although overall rainfall amounts are more likely to be below average than above. Temperatures will likely be above average and some spells of hot weather and heatwaves are possible, especially in the south."
For gardeners and those longing for cooler conditions, the prospect of rain on August 17 offers a glimmer of hope, but the unpredictability of weather forecasting means that plans should remain flexible.
