London Sees First Rain in Weeks After Prolonged Dry Spell

After weeks of heatwave and drought, the first rain fell over London on Thursday evening, sparking celebrations online despite very low amounts.

Brit Brief 30/07/2026 18:04

London Sees First Rain in Weeks After Prolonged Dry Spell — London Sees First Rain in Weeks After Dry Spell

Londoners have taken to social media to celebrate the first rainfall in weeks, after the capital endured a prolonged dry spell and multiple heatwaves.

Rain Returns After Long Dry Period

With the exception of a brief shower on July 5, London had not seen any significant rain since June 27. The city experienced its fourth heatwave of the summer and has been under a hosepipe ban imposed by Thames Water.

According to the Met Office rain tracker, rain began over southwest London around 5.30pm on Thursday before drifting south. However, most areas recorded less than 0.5mm per hour, though some locations such as Croydon and Richmond reported brief showers.

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More Rain Expected Before Returning to Dry Conditions

Further rainfall is possible in the coming hours and into the early hours of Friday. After that, dry weather is predicted until the middle of next week, when light showers are expected daily for most of the remainder of the week.