UK's driest regions miss rain chance before next heatwave

The United Kingdom is bracing for another heatwave, with the driest regions in the south set to miss out on much-needed rainfall. While parts of the north and west experienced some showers over the weekend, the forecast for the south indicates continued dry and sunny conditions as temperatures climb.

This dry spell has already led to parts of Wales officially entering drought status. Other areas in southern, central, and eastern England remain under "prolonged dry weather" warnings, the stage just before a drought is declared. The upcoming heatwave is expected to worsen these conditions.

Temperatures are predicted to peak around 35C (95F) in southeast England. In response, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued heat health alerts for multiple regions, including the south-west, south-east, London, East of England, West and East Midlands, and Yorkshire and The Humber. These alerts are in effect from Tuesday to Friday and warn of minor impacts on health and social care services, with an increased risk to life for vulnerable individuals.