The Met Office has predicted that the UK's third heatwave of 2026 will end around July 17, with a significant change in weather bringing thunderstorms and heavy rain, particularly across southern parts of the country.
Current heatwave conditions
Monday, July 13, is expected to be a "sunny and very warm day with strong sunshine" for most of the UK, while Tuesday will remain "mostly dry and sunny", though with a "chance of showers or thunderstorms in the southwest at first".
From Wednesday to Friday, most places will stay "dry, sunny and very warm", but there will be an "increasing chance of showers and thunderstorms in the southwest, particularly on Thursday and Friday".
Change in weather pattern from July 17
In its long-range UK forecast covering July 17 to July 26, the Met Office predicts a "change in weather pattern" leading to a "more unsettled spell". Weather experts state that "some heavy and thundery showers are likely, particularly across the south of the UK", with "showers or longer spells of rain at times, perhaps heavy and thundery in places". Despite the rain, temperatures are still expected to remain above normal.
Outlook for late July and August
Looking further ahead to the end of July and into August, the Met Office forecasts "changeable weather patterns" with more rain, although "some drier and brighter interludes are also possible, especially in the south and southeast". Temperatures are likely to remain above normal, with "some hot spells possible".
