Weather maps show when record dry spell ends and it comes as no surprise

Wales Online

14-05-2025

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The UK's current dry spell is set to last a while longer, the Met Office believes. But like all good things, it won't continue forever.
A persistent area of high pressure has been dominating the country since the end of February. While it's brought an early-season tourism and shopping boost to many areas, the lack of rain is worrying farmers and gardeners.
According to the Met Office, the 'blocking high' has been reinforced by an amplified jet stream, trapping high pressure in place and helping to prevent other weather systems moving in. This week millions of households were put on drought alert amid fears of summer water shortages.
The forecaster expects this situation to last a while longer. 'Don't expect widespread rain just yet,' said the Met Office. 'While a few areas might see a brief shower or some drizzle, most of the UK will remain dry through the weekend and likely into next week.
'While there's a small chance of light showers in some areas this weekend, the dominant high pressure system is holding firm. If you're hoping for rain, you may need to wait a little longer.'
There are signs the prolonged dry spell could begin to break down toward the end of next week. Rain and stronger winds are currently predicted to arrive from the west or south, possibly bringing thunderstorms.
Weather models suggest the first signs of this breakdown will be on Friday, May 23. Current forecasts indicate this will open the door to a succession of Atlantic lows bringing rain across the country. Sign up now for the latest news on the North Wales Live Whatsapp community
(Image: WXCharts)
Long-range forecasting is fraught with pitfalls but at present, weather models show that, in time-honoured fashion, the Whitsun Bank Holiday weekend will be a damp squib.
In fact, several days of rain are forecast to sweep across the UK with the prospect of a soggy start to June.
On the bright side, this leaves the prospect of more fine weather for much of the UK until then.
Mostly dry and largely sunny conditions are expected to remain in place as high pressure remains dominant. It will continue to be "warm or very warm" for many, especially in the western UK, said the Met Office.
(Image: WXCharts)
But the forecaster cautioned: 'As we move into the latter part of the month, the long-range outlook suggests a gradual shift toward more unsettled weather.
"Western regions may see more frequent rain and showers, while the south and east could still maintain drier spells.
'That said, occasional rainfall and even thunderstorms are possible across the country.
"Temperatures are expected to remain around or slightly above average for the time of year, but the return of more typical spring weather may finally bring some relief to those hoping for rain.'
(Image: WXCharts)
As things stand, this spring is ranking as the driest spring in more than a century according to the Met Office.
There has been some significant periods of rain in Wales and southeast England – including some short but dramatic deluges in northwest Wales on Monday, May 12.
Overall, however, the UK has seen an average rainfall of just 80mm – way down on the long-term spring average of 229mm.
Moreover, April was the sunniest on record, following the third sunniest March ever. Sunshine in May is also currently running above average.
(Image: WXCharts)
Next week's arrival of a sustained period of rain threatens to disrupt this otherwise serene picture.
In its medium-range forecast, the Met Office predicts a growing chance of rain, strengthening winds and thunderstorms.
This is likely to be accompanied by temperatures "dropping nearer to average for the time of year". Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
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