Barnet faces 38-day drought as Met Office records driest July
Light rain forecast for 10 August may not end water restrictions across north-west London
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Barnet has gone 38 days without measurable rainfall, matching the dry spell recorded at Heathrow since 23 June. The Met Office confirmed on 31 July that England and Wales are on track for the driest July since records began. Temperatures in the borough have remained in the high 20s Celsius, with no rain forecast until at least 10 August.
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The BBC forecast predicts light rain showers in London on Monday 10 August, with temperatures reaching 26°C. However, the Met Office has warned that a single day of light rain will not alleviate the drought. BBC Weather said prolonged rainfall over several days or weeks would be needed to restore water levels.
The next chance of more substantial rain is forecast for Saturday 15 August, when the BBC predicts light rain and a gentle breeze. Until then, sunny intervals and temperatures in the high 20s are expected to continue. The last comparable drought in 1976 saw some areas go 44 days without rain.
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Thames Water and Affinity Water have imposed hosepipe bans covering most of London, including parts of Barnet. Essex and Suffolk Water announced an immediate ban for East London on 31 July. Residents in affected areas are prohibited from using hosepipes for gardens, cars or outdoor cleaning.
Parks and green spaces in Barnet show signs of drought stress. Scorched grass and dry soil have been reported across the borough, mirroring conditions seen in other parts of the capital. The Met Office said the lack of rainfall has left reservoirs and groundwater levels below normal for this time of year.
What happens next
The BBC forecast for 10 August shows light rain, but experts say this will not be enough to end the drought. BBC Weather has indicated that significant rainfall may not arrive until October. Until then, water restrictions are likely to remain in place across Barnet and the wider London area.
Residents are advised to check their water supplier’s website for updates on restrictions. Thames Water and Affinity Water have both said they will review the bans if rainfall increases. No further announcements on lifting restrictions are expected before the end of August.
Questions this report answers
+How long has Barnet gone without rain?
Barnet has recorded 38 consecutive dry days since 23 June, matching the drought conditions reported at Heathrow. The Met Office confirmed this is part of the driest July on record for England and Wales.
+When will it rain in Barnet?
Light rain is forecast for 10 August, with a chance of more substantial rain on 15 August. However, BBC Weather says prolonged rainfall over weeks will be needed to ease the drought, with significant relief not expected until October.
+Are hosepipe bans in place in Barnet?
Yes, hosepipe bans are in force across most of London, including parts of Barnet served by Thames Water and Affinity Water. Residents are prohibited from using hosepipes for gardens, cars or outdoor cleaning.
+What happens if the drought continues?
If the drought continues, water restrictions are likely to remain in place. The Met Office and BBC Weather say significant rainfall is needed to restore water levels, with no major relief expected before October.
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