Will the promise of rain threaten the sun’s long reign?
A modest change of weather type is on the horizon as the long-standing area of high pressure begins to yield to more unsettled conditions from the weekend.
Steve Willington is a Met Office chief forecaster. He said: “The high pressure has been a key feature of the UK’s weather forecast over the last few weeks, bringing above-average temperatures and extremely dry conditions for many. However, we will begin to see a modest change as a weak weather front pushes south across the UK on Saturday bringing some much-needed rain, albeit it light and mainly concentrated in the north and west. Behind the front a showery air mass will bring potentially heavy showers some of which may be thundery.”
Fine ahead of the weekend
Until the weekend conditions will remain fine and warm for many with some locations – especially in southern and southwestern parts - just remaining in heatwave thresholds, albeit temporarily.
Greg Wolverson is a Met Office deputy chief forecaster. He said: “Fresher conditions will prevail from Sunday onwards, but temperatures will remain around average for the time of year.”
During next week Atlantic dominated weather fronts will push in from the west bringing some rain, but in between there will be brighter spells, which in the July sunshine should elevate temperatures to the mid 20sC.
Greg Wolverson added: “Although there is a return to rain in the forecast, we have just come out of an exceptionally dry spell and the forecast rain is unlikely to be widespread or substantial. Many areas are likely to continue experiencing prevailing dry conditions for the foreseeable future, especially in southern England.”
Staying safe in hot weather
With temperatures expected to remain high over several days, people are advised to take sensible precautions in the heat, including staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day, and checking on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours.
UV levels are expected to be high or very high across many parts of the UK throughout the week, and people heading outdoors should ensure they use appropriate sun protection.
Pollen levels are also expected to be high or very high in some areas.
READ: Learn more about UV and sun health
READ: Check the Met Office pollen forecast and find out more about pollen here
Keeping safe in the water
If you're planning on enjoying the water, here are three simple ways you can help keep yourself safer:
- Check the water temperature: our seas and river temperatures are low enough to cause cold water shock when 15°C or lower
- Wear a wetsuit if you plan on spending any length of time in the water
- Wearing a life jacket or swimming buoy can increase your chances if you experience cold water shock
With breezier conditions expected to develop in southern areas, there is an increased risk for those heading onto the water.
Lee Pooley, Head of Safety at Paddle UK said: "Offshore winds are incredibly deceptive because the water near the shoreline often looks perfectly calm, flat, and inviting. However, the moment you paddle out, a breeze blowing from the land can rapidly sweep a paddleboarder out to sea faster than they can paddle back.
"Our rescue data with the RNLI consistently shows that offshore winds are a primary cause of emergency callouts. We strongly advise everyone to check the weather and wind direction before heading out, and if the wind is blowing away from the shore, do not go."
You can find water safety advice on our website and in the Met Office app, which now features a dedicated beach forecast with tide times, wave heights and sea-surface temperatures, as well as guidance on UV and pollen levels.
You can find the latest forecast on our website, on YouTube, by following us on X and Facebook, as well as on our mobile app which is available for iPhone from the App store and for Android from the Google Play store.
