Barnet faces thunderstorms and seven days of rain after record 38.1°C heat
Forecasters predict showers from 18 August, with temperatures dropping to 13°C by midweek
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Barnet and the wider London area are set for a sharp shift in weather after recording the fifth-highest UK temperature on record. The Met Office confirmed that Kew Gardens reached 38.1°C on 13 August, part of a summer marked by repeated heatwaves. Now, forecasters predict seven days of rain starting on 18 August, with thunderstorms possible until 27 August.
BBC Weather reports that Tuesday 18 August will begin with light rain and drizzle, followed by heavier showers on Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures will fall to 13°C by 20 August, offering relief from the recent extreme heat. Friday is expected to stay dry before rain returns on Saturday evening, with unsettled conditions continuing into the following week.
Barnet faces first rain in weeks on 17 August as heat health alert remains
Light showers expected in the afternoon, with temperatures staying above 20°C during wet days
Thunderstorms and bank holiday uncertainty
The forecast for the bank holiday weekend remains unclear. BBC Weather indicates thundery showers could last until 8 pm on 27 August, but it is uncertain whether rain will persist during Notting Hill Carnival. Weather expert Jim Dale, of British Weather Services, told MyLondon that temperatures are likely to settle in the mid-20s, which he described as "pretty much perfect" for outdoor events.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong said the current heatwave is part of a "remarkable summer" with numerous temperature records broken. The UK has already experienced four days at or above 36°C in 2026, equalling the record set in 2022. However, the dry spell has left parks and gardens parched, with little immediate relief expected.
London heat alert warns of health risks as temperatures hit 32C on Sunday
Barnet residents advised to check on vulnerable neighbours as yellow health alert remains in force
Rain may not ease drought concerns
While rain is forecast, the Met Office warns it may not be enough to alleviate drought conditions in southern England. Deputy Chief Forecaster Steven Keates said a front moving across the UK on Monday and Tuesday will bring rain to northern areas, but southern regions, including Barnet, will see only small amounts. More substantial rainfall is not expected until late next week, with details still uncertain.
Residents are advised to check updated forecasts, particularly for the bank holiday weekend. The Met Office will provide clearer predictions in the coming days, but current models suggest a mix of sunshine, showers, and possible thunderstorms.
What happens next
Barnet residents should prepare for cooler, wetter conditions from 18 August. The Met Office will issue further updates on the timing and intensity of rainfall, particularly for the bank holiday weekend. Those planning outdoor activities are advised to monitor forecasts for sudden changes, including thunderstorms on 27 August.
Questions this report answers
+How hot did it get in Barnet on 13 August?
The Met Office recorded 38.1°C at Kew Gardens on 13 August, the fifth-highest temperature ever recorded in the UK. This follows a summer of repeated heatwaves and broken records across southern England.
+When will the rain start in Barnet?
BBC Weather forecasts showers beginning on 18 August, with heavier rain expected on 19 and 20 August. Temperatures will drop to 13°C by midweek, bringing relief from the recent heat.
+Will the bank holiday weekend stay dry?
It is unclear. BBC Weather predicts thundery showers until 8 pm on 27 August, but the Met Office has not confirmed whether rain will affect Notting Hill Carnival. Jim Dale expects mid-20s temperatures, which he calls ideal for outdoor events.
+Will the rain help with the drought?
No. The Met Office warns that southern England, including Barnet, will see only small amounts of rain. Meaningful rainfall is not expected until late next week, and details remain uncertain.
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