Despite some rain in the forecast, current weather patterns are unlikely to alleviate drought conditions in England and Wales.
Key facts
- •Wales has received 8% of its long-term average rainfall for July.
- •Southern England has seen only 1% of expected rainfall this month.
- •Rhian Thomas of NRW noted that wildfires have devastated forestry and grassland.
- •The Environment Agency warned that water is being used faster than it can be replenished.
- •Forecasts for August indicate warmer- and drier-than-average weather.
Parts of the UK will see scattered showers through the weekend, but areas of England and Wales currently in drought are expected to remain dry. While the forecast for next week suggests more unsettled weather, experts warn that the predicted rainfall will be insufficient to end the ongoing drought. The trend heading into August remains warmer and drier than average, meaning conditions could worsen before they improve.
By the numbers
Rainfall and soil conditions
High summer temperatures contribute to rapid evaporation, limiting the effectiveness of light rain. Additionally, heavy summer downpours often fall faster than the soil can absorb, resulting in limited moisture retention. To effectively alleviate the drought, a prolonged period of rain lasting over several days or weeks is required.
Record low rainfall
Wales has recorded only 8% of its long-term average rainfall for July, putting it on track for its driest July in 190 years. In England, rainfall has reached only 7% of expected levels, with southern England seeing as little as 1%. The Environment Agency has warned that water consumption is currently outpacing natural replenishment.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Science & Environment.
