London is set for four days of rainfall starting Sunday, August 23, marking the beginning of the end of one of the hottest and driest summers on record. The rain will help replenish the capital's parched green spaces, according to weather forecasts.
Record Heat Gives Way to Cooler Temperatures
The UK experienced its hottest day of the year on Thursday, with a provisional temperature of 38.1C recorded in Kew Gardens. Friday saw a similar peak of around 34C. However, temperatures have dropped remarkably overnight, with Saturday, August 15, expected to reach no higher than about 27C in the afternoon.
This pattern will continue throughout the week, with days of gentle sunshine and peaks gradually lowering from 27C down to around 22C by Friday. The cooler conditions are a stark contrast to the recent heatwave that has dominated the summer.
Rain Forecast to Replenish Dry Spaces
Many Londoners will welcome the rain on Sunday, August 23, when the capital is forecast to undergo a four-day spell of rainfall. The rain will become slightly more intense on Monday, August 24, with precipitation chances exceeding 60 per cent, before returning to light showers on the following Tuesday and Wednesday.
The rainfall is expected to help restore the city's dried-out parks and gardens, which have suffered during the prolonged dry spell. Earlier this month, images showed dried-out paths on Primrose Hill, highlighting the impact of the dry conditions.
Prime Minister Promises Extra Funding for Fire Services
The announcement comes as Prime Minister Andy Burnham promised fire and rescue services will receive extra funding after a summer dominated by wildfires. He stated the goal is to “make sure they are properly resourced going forwards”.
Mr Burnham later added that it is “clear the climate is changing” and the country has to “react accordingly”. The funding pledge aims to better equip fire services to handle future wildfire risks exacerbated by dry conditions.
London Temperature Outlook for Next Week
The Met Office forecasts a gradual cooling trend across the capital. Saturday, August 15, will see sunny intervals and light winds, with a peak of 27C. Sunday, August 16, brings light cloud and winds, with a peak of 26C. Monday, August 17, returns to sunny intervals and light winds, reaching 27C.
Tuesday, August 18, will have light cloud and a gentle breeze, with a peak of 26C. Wednesday, August 19, offers patches of sunshine, with a peak temperature of 23C. Thursday, August 20, sees sunny intervals and a gentle breeze, rising to 22C. Friday, August 21, will be sunny with light winds, with the mercury rising to 21C.
