The UK is experiencing an intense heatwave that has brought exceptional sunshine and temperatures above 30C to many parts of the country. Large areas of southern and south-west England have recorded almost double their usual sunshine for the first half of July. At the same time, dry weather continues to increase concerns about drought and wildfire risks.
Southern England Records Exceptional Sunshine
Many locations across southern England have enjoyed far more sunshine than normal during the first half of July. Areas including Yeovilton in Somerset and Odiham in Hampshire have each received around 152 hours of sunshine in just the first 13 days of the month. That is nearly twice the average for this time of year.
High pressure has remained over the UK for an extended period. This weather pattern keeps skies mostly clear because sinking air prevents cloud from developing. As a result, many regions have experienced long, sunny days.
Some places have seen cloudy mornings. However, strong sunshine usually clears inland cloud by late morning. Coastal areas near the North Sea have remained cloudier because cooler sea air allows cloud to stay longer.
Temperatures Stay Above 30C
The current heatwave has spread across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Several parts of the UK have experienced 10 consecutive days with temperatures exceeding 30C.
Forecasters expect the hot conditions to continue through the week. Although temperatures could ease slightly during the weekend, sunny weather is likely to remain across much of the country.
Dry Weather Raises Drought Concerns
July has also been unusually dry. Several areas in England have recorded no measurable rainfall so far this month. The prolonged lack of rain has left the ground dry and increased pressure on water supplies.
Wisley in Surrey has now gone 27 consecutive days without rainfall. Wales and Northern Ireland have also received much less rain than they normally would during July.
The ongoing dry spell has increased the risk of drought in several regions. Authorities continue to monitor water resources as reservoirs and rivers remain under pressure.
Hosepipe Bans and Wildfire Risk Increase
More than eight million households across England are now affected by hosepipe bans. Water companies introduced these restrictions to help protect limited water supplies during the prolonged dry period.
At the same time, firefighters remain concerned about the growing threat of wildfires. Dry vegetation and continued hot weather create ideal conditions for fires to spread quickly, especially in grasslands and open countryside.
