Parts of UK to get break in heatwave but dry spell to continue

As well as the prolonged heat, this summer has also been exceptionally dry for many places.

Rainfall patterns have varied considerably across the UK, but the driest regions have been eastern and north-eastern parts of England which have received only around half their expected rainfall by this stage of the summer.

Wisley in Surrey has now experienced 31 dry days, and for a large area of central England, it has been the longest dry spell in 30 years.

With high pressure set to dominate the weather over the next week, there will be very little rainfall if any in many places.

The wettest places are likely to be in north-west Scotland, where frontal systems may bring up to 30mm (1.18in) of rain through the week.

There could also be a few showers elsewhere, mainly close to coasts, but it is likely many inland areas could have at least five more completely dry days.