UK heatwave ends as temps fall after 13 days over 30°C

The Met Office forecast a cooling trend across the United Kingdom after a 13‑day stretch of temperatures exceeding 30 °C. Highs of 31 °C were recorded at Ross‑on‑Wye, but forecast models show a shift to a more northerly flow that will bring cooler conditions over the weekend and into the next week.

The long hot spell has coincided with heightened wildfire risk, with 499 fires recorded in England and Wales from January to mid‑July, and a record‑long dry period in central and south‑east England – 14 consecutive rain‑free days. The forecasted drop in temperatures is expected to reduce fire danger, although some locations may still experience heat‑wave conditions.

Regional forecasts indicate highs in the low twenties for most areas, with overnight lows dropping into the low teens. The cooling trend follows a year that has already seen 28 days where temperatures surpassed 30 °C, approaching historic records.