25/08/2026
Rain on the horizon for drought-covered UK?
The UK's mean temperature between 1st June and 10th August has been nearly 2°C above the average between 1991 and 2020. It's also the first time that 35°C has been reached in four separate calendar months - May, June, July and August. The forecast suggests cooler temperatures and rain is on the way, but what does this mean for flood risk?
Drought declared
Drought has been declared in more than 2/3s of England and all of Wales. For the first two weeks of August, England received just 6% of the long-term average for the month. This pattern has been seen across Western Europe, as the whole region saw their hottest June to July period on record.
Wildfires across Europe
These dry conditions make wildfires more likely to start, and more likely to spread rapidly. Fires have affected huge areas of England, Scotland and Wales, including in the New Forest, the Cairngorns, and South Wales. Over half a million hectares of land has been devastated by fires this year in Europe alone.
Flash flooding risk
Although much of the UK is in desperate need of rainfall, heavy rain falling on dry ground can increase the risk of flash floods. This is because the hardened soil isn't as good at absorbing rain, leading to increased surface runoff which can quickly overwhelm drains and rivers.
Staying prepared:
Flooding can affect anyone, regardless of whether they live near a river or body of water. Encourage your clients to keep an eye out for flood alerts and warnings, and to make a flood plan so they are prepared in the event of a flood. Clients in England can sign up for alerts from the Environment Agency.
