UK Rain Returns Amid Drought but Won't End Water Shortage

Following months of exceptional heat and record-breaking dry weather, rain is forecast to return to parts of the United Kingdom this week, but officials and experts caution the showers will not end the severe drought gripping most of England and all of Wales. The welcome precipitation comes as millions of people are under water-use restrictions after July was confirmed as the driest month on record for both nations.

The Met Office forecasts that a large rain system will move in from the Atlantic on Monday afternoon, August 17, primarily affecting Northern Ireland, Scotland, and northern England. By Tuesday and Wednesday, the rain will spread to other areas, including parts of southern England. However, forecasters state the total amount of rainfall is expected to remain below average for the time of year. Chief meteorologist Will Lang said that while some rainfall is welcome after virtually no rain in southern parts of the UK, "the overall amount of rain will still be below normal for the time of year."

The prolonged spell of hot and dry conditions, punctuated by five heatwaves this summer including temperatures as high as 38.1C, has led to a dramatic drop in water levels in...