As we move into August, the UK’s weather continues to deliver a mix of sunshine, showers, and speculation.
With headlines ranging from extreme heat to widespread storms, how do these claims compare with the official Met Office forecast?
This week’s weather has been varied, with some areas seeing settled conditions while others have experienced rain and the risk of thunderstorms.
Let’s take a closer look at how the headlines stack up against the forecast.
Is a 40°C heatwave really on the cards?
"UK weather heatwave update as extreme temperatures of 40°C predicted," reads one headline.
What our forecast says: While warmer conditions are expected at times, particularly in the south and southeast, there is no indication of extreme temperatures reaching 40°C. The forecast suggests temperatures may reach the mid-20s in southern areas around the weekend of 2–3 August. These values are not unusual for this time of year. Although above-average temperatures are more likely by mid to late August, any very warm or hot spells are expected to be short-lived and localised.
READ MORE: Met Office 10-day trend: Stormy conditions to end July
A 492-mile ‘rain bomb’?
"UK weather maps show 492-mile rain bomb drenching country top to bottom," claims an online headline.
What our forecast says: While the term ‘rain bomb’ is not a meteorological one, there is indeed a spell of unsettled weather in the forecast. Saturday is expected to start with a few light showers in the southeast, followed by a generally fine day with sunny spells. Rain will develop later in parts of western Scotland and Northern Ireland. On Sunday, a band of rain will spread southeast across most areas, with some heavy and possibly thundery bursts. However, the rain is not expected to be continuous or uniform across the entire country, and the 492-mile figure appears to be an exaggeration.
Is a heatwave returning to Bristol?
"Exact date 'summer heatwave' to return as Bristol could reach temperatures of 31C," suggests one headline.
What our forecast says: While high pressure may build towards the UK, leading to more settled weather, temperatures are expected to remain around average. There is no strong signal for a widespread or prolonged heatwave, and while some locations may see warmer days, the forecast does not currently support temperatures as high as 31°C in Bristol.
READ MORE: What is the Gulf Stream and how does it affect UK weather?
Thunderstorms and flash flooding warnings
"Thunderstorm and flash flooding warning after heavy rain batters country," reports another outlet.
What our forecast says: This headline is more closely aligned with the official Met Office forecast. A yellow weather warning has been issued for Southern England from 10am until 9pm on Thursday.
Keep up to date with weather warnings, and 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.
