The Met Office has issued a long-range forecast indicating that rain is on the way for many parts of the UK, including Wales, where a hosepipe ban remains in effect for approximately 33,000 properties. The forecast, covering July 25 to August 3, suggests a shift to more changeable weather after weeks of hot and dry conditions.
Rain Expected Across the UK
According to the Met Office, weather systems will bring rain to most parts of the UK over the weekend of July 25-26, with showers following. Further bands of rain are likely to spread southeast next week, interspersed with sunny spells. The forecast states: "This period looks like being largely changeable, with many parts likely to see some rain at times. Rain will spread southeast across most if not all parts of the UK through this weekend, with some showers following."
Despite the rain, temperatures are expected to remain near or above average, with the possibility of very warm conditions returning by early August. The Met Office notes: "Confidence becomes lower as we approach the turn of the month, but there are hints that high pressure could return for a time, which would mean dry conditions resuming, especially in the south."
Hosepipe Ban Still in Force
Welsh Water's temporary hosepipe ban affects customers in mid and south Ceredigion, parts of north Pembrokeshire, and north Carmarthenshire. The company introduced the ban after demand for drinking water reached around one billion litres per day during the recent hot spell—about 20% higher than normal. Reservoirs have been depleting faster than they can be replenished, increasing the risk of low pressure and supply interruptions.
A Dwr Cymru spokesperson said the restrictions are a temporary emergency measure and will remain in place only as long as needed. The ban will be reviewed regularly and lifted when water storage recovers sufficiently.
What the Hosepipe Ban Prohibits
Customers in affected areas must not use a hosepipe for watering gardens or plants, washing private cars or leisure boats, filling or topping up swimming pools or paddling pools, maintaining ponds or ornamental fountains, cleaning windows or walls, washing patios or paths, or drawing water for domestic recreational use. Exemptions apply for health and safety, emergencies, certain commercial activities, and customers with medical or mobility needs.
Enforcement and Penalties
Welsh Water has said it is not actively encouraging reporting of neighbours but may take action against repeated violations. Under the Water Industry Act, fines of up to £1,000 can be issued for breaching a temporary hosepipe ban, though enforcement focuses on deliberate or repeated offenses.
Longer-Term Outlook
Looking ahead to August 4-18, the Met Office expects higher pressure to dominate, bringing largely settled conditions with above-average temperatures. The forecast adds: "Higher pressure is considered generally more likely than lower pressure through August. This means settled and dry weather will likely prevail, especially across the south. Some rain is still likely at times, especially across northern parts." Occasional summertime thunderstorms are possible, and temperatures may remain above normal, with potential for further hot spells in southern areas.
