UK Heatwave Ends as Cooler, Wetter Days Arrive

London is preparing for a spell of heavy rain after experiencing days of unusually high temperatures during the UK’s recent heatwave.

The Met Office reported temperatures reached 35.1C at Kew Gardens in west London on Monday, following one of the hottest periods recorded in May. However, the capital is now expected to see a sharp shift in weather conditions, with temperatures potentially dropping to 11C by the end of next week.

Before the change arrives, London is forecast to enjoy more warm weather this weekend, with temperatures reaching around 30C on Saturday and 24C on Sunday. Rain is expected to move in from Monday, with showers predicted throughout the week and continuing until at least next Friday.

Forecasters say northern and western parts of the UK are likely to experience the heaviest and most frequent rainfall on Sunday, while June is expected to begin with scattered showers mixed with brighter spells.

Met Office meteorologist Greg Dewhurst described the upcoming conditions as a noticeable break from the heatwave, with temperatures returning closer to seasonal norms.

He said the rain would likely be welcomed by gardeners, farmers and growers after weeks of hot, dry weather left the ground parched. While the cooler temperatures mark a significant change, Dewhurst noted that many people who struggled with the heat may welcome the relief.

Despite the unsettled start to June, there are signs warmer weather could return later in the month. Dewhurst said higher pressure systems may become more dominant during the middle and second half of June, bringing more settled and warmer conditions.

The weather shift follows record-breaking temperatures across England and Wales, which saw their hottest May days on record earlier this week.

The heatwave has also been linked to several tragedies. Sixteen-year-old Charlie Noble became the 12th person to die in a water-related incident during the period of extreme heat after his body was recovered in Stirlingshire, Scotland. Other fatalities have been reported across several areas including South Yorkshire, Cornwall, Hampshire and Lancashire.

Meanwhile, thousands of residents in Kent continue to face water supply problems as South East Water struggles to cope with increased demand caused by the hot weather. Businesses have temporarily closed and residents have queued at water distribution points since supply issues began over the bank holiday weekend.