When the heatwave will end in Bristol as millions of UK households warned of drought risk

The Environment Agency (EA) has warned of a “medium” risk of drought in England this summer without sustained rainfall, after the country experienced its driest start to spring, in March and April, in 61 years.

The regulator has said there are currently no hosepipe bans planned, but warned water companies might have to implement measures including restrictions in the months ahead.

It is a marked change in the weather after England endured the wettest 12 months from October 2023 to September 2024, causing devastating flooding and leaving farmers struggling to get crops into the ground.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Harris said: “The settled weather is expected to continue into the weekend too as high pressure remains centred over the UK, although cloud and early mist will probably become a bit more widespread, this gradually retreating back to coasts through the course of the daytime.”

Here’s the weather outlook for the coming days:

Thursday (May 15)

A dry and settled day with lengthy spells of sunshine once any early mist and low cloud clear.

Sunshine perhaps turning hazy at times, but feeling pleasant with light winds.

Max: 21C | Min: 7C

Friday (May 16)

Widely dry and fine to end the week. Feeling warm with plenty of sunshine by day though turning cooler overnight.

Some early morning low cloud possible for a few.

Max: 23C | Min: 8C

Saturday (May 17)

Another bright and sunny day is expected.

Max: 22C | Min: 8C

Sunday (May 18)

Sunny weather continues with clear skies throughout the day.

Max: 22C | Min: 8C

Monday (May 19)

A sunny start to the week.

Max: 22C | Min: 9C

Tuesday (May 20)

A sunny day with clear skies.

Max: 22C | Min: 9C

Wednesday (May 21)

Another sunny day.

Max: 23C | Min: 10C