UK and Europe Face New Heatwave With Record Temperatures and Drought Risks

1-Minute Brief

The upcoming heatwave is expected to intensify drought conditions and impact retail activity across the UK and Europe.

Key Facts

• Wisley has experienced 50 consecutive days without rain, surpassing its previous 36-day dry spell during the 1976 heatwave.
• Forecasts predict daily maximum temperatures in the high 30s Celsius across France, Spain, and Italy next week.
• Temperatures in the UK are expected to reach 36C next week, with heat health alerts in place and a risk of new droughts.
• Wisley's current dry streak is set to exceed its previous record by more than 14 days.
• UK retail footfall in July was down 2.1% year-on-year amid soaring temperatures.

What Happened

A new heatwave is forecast to bring high temperatures to the UK and much of central and western Europe, with some areas experiencing prolonged dry spells and warnings of potential drought.

Why It Matters

Prolonged heat and lack of rainfall may worsen drought conditions, strain water resources, and disrupt daily life, including economic activity such as retail shopping.

What's Next

Authorities are monitoring the situation with heat health alerts in place. Further impacts on water supply, agriculture, and business activity are possible if the heatwave continues.