Temperatures to Fall Across Europe as Rain Heads for Parts of UK
Relief from the heat is arriving in western Europe, with temperatures expected to fall back towards the seasonal norm. Rain is forecast for parts of the UK, with some areas potentially seeing substantial rainfall.
The weather system in western Europe is set to undergo a significant change, with temperatures expected to fall back towards the seasonal norm. This comes after a prolonged period of heat, with some parts of the UK experiencing a temperature drop of more than 15C compared to last Thursday's heat.
There are signs that substantial rain could be on the cards for the south of the UK this week. A cold front is moving in from the Atlantic on Monday night into Tuesday, bringing the chance of rain. This is particularly notable given the prolonged dry spell that has affected the region. As of Monday, parts of southern England had endured 62 consecutive days of no rainfall.
The Met Office weather station in Wisley, Surrey, recorded just 0.4mm of rainfall on 16 June, highlighting the severity of the dry spell. Even a few substantial bursts of rain will make a noticeable difference to the environment.
Continental Europe is also likely to turn wetter as the main cold front sinks southwards into France and Germany on Wednesday. However, rainfall is likely to be more hit and miss in the southern regions, relying heavily on showers and thunderstorms.
While the heat is subsiding in western Europe, the southern US states are experiencing extreme heat warnings this week. Overnight lows are not falling much below 27-28C, making it difficult for people to get relief from the heat. High humidity is also contributing to the uncomfortable conditions, with apparent temperatures of 31-33C being modelled as the overnight lows.
The National Weather Service has warned of "dangerously hot conditions" due to the forecasted daytime heat index values, which could exceed 46C in some areas. This is particularly concerning for regions such as Louisiana and Mississippi.
Weather Forecast for Western Europe
| Temperatures (C) | Rainfall | |
|---|---|---|
| Western Europe | 15-20 | Unsettled conditions |
| South of the UK | 10-15 | Substantial rain possible |
| Continental Europe | 10-15 | Wetter conditions expected |
| Southern US states | 27-28 | Extreme heat warnings |
Impacts of the Weather System
The prolonged dry spell in the UK has had significant impacts on the environment. Even a few substantial bursts of rain will make a noticeable difference. The cold front moving in from the Atlantic is expected to bring frequent sharp showers and potentially thundery downpours, which will help to alleviate the dry conditions.
The heat index, or apparent temperature, is a measure of how hot conditions feel due to the combination of air temperature and humidity. In the southern US states, the heat index is expected to exceed 46C in some areas, making it feel even hotter than the actual temperature.
The weather system in western Europe is set to undergo a significant change, with temperatures expected to fall back towards the seasonal norm. This comes after a prolonged period of heat, with some parts of the UK experiencing a temperature drop of more than 15C compared to last Thursday's heat.
Source: The Guardian Weather