# Second Half of Summer to Bring Rain Chances but Heatwave Threat Persists Rain is expected in the UK in the second half of summer, but heatwaves will continue to have an impact. - **Source:** [BBC News](https://brifing.si/source/647b890e-c85e-45b8-9588-ccfecdec4a99) - **Published:** 2026-07-18 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/7c9acf57-b0a7-46ac-921a-73b8f9820f71 ## Variable Weather in the Second Half of Summer The weather in the UK may become more variable in the second half of summer. Long-term forecasts indicate that rainy periods could increase, especially in Scotland and Northern Ireland. However, temperatures are likely to remain above average. ## The Influence of the Azores High The Azores High, a semi-permanent system in the North Atlantic, can block rainy weather fronts from reaching the UK. This situation may lead to continued dry conditions, particularly in southern regions. ## Heatwaves and Records This summer, several temperature records were broken in the UK. Three separate heatwaves occurred in May, June, and July. This period has been recorded as one of the hottest since the summer of 1976. ## Drought and Fire Danger Prolonged drought has increased the risk of fires, especially in southern England. Some areas have not seen measurable rainfall for over four weeks. This has led to water restrictions affecting millions of households. ## The Role of Climate Change Scientists state that human-induced climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and intense. According to the Met Office's report, the climate conditions of the 20th century are now a thing of the past, with the UK warming by approximately 0.25°C per decade. ## Future Forecasts While long-term weather forecasts are fraught with uncertainty, temperatures are expected to remain above average in early August, with the possibility of new heatwaves. This indicates the need for caution in the remainder of the summer. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/articles/c07rex9p7x2o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._