Temperatures across the UK are set to drop as millions of drivers prepare for summer holidays. The RAC anticipates approximately 14.1 million motorists will travel between Friday and Sunday, marking the second highest volume since 2016. Most schools in England and Wales have either finished for summer or will do so shortly, while Scotland and Northern Ireland have already dismissed students for the season.
Saturday is expected to be the busiest travel day, with an estimated 3.8 million journeys planned, compared to 3.4 million on both Friday and Sunday. The Port of Dover forecasts outbound vehicle numbers to rise from around 7,500 on Friday to nearly 10,000 on Saturday. The RAC highlights that south-west and north-west England will experience the heaviest leisure traffic.
On Friday, temperatures soared above 30°C for the 13th consecutive day, peaking at 31°C in Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire. However, the Met Office predicts a slight cooldown over the weekend, with highs near 24°C in London and Cardiff, 21°C in Manchester, and 23°C in Glasgow.
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This summer has already seen 28 days exceeding 30°C across the UK, with seven in May, eight in June, and thirteen in July. The all-time record for 30°C-plus days in a year is 34, set in 1995.
The persistent heat and drought have led to increased wildfire risks. National Resilience data reveals nearly 499 wildfires in England and Wales between January 1 and July 16—a notable figure, though below the 748 fires recorded by the same date last year. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) reports that wildfire activity remains substantially higher than in recent years, citing 81 fires in 2024, 242 in 2023, and 400 in 2022 by this point in the year.
The driest stretches have been particularly severe in central and south-east England. For 14 consecutive days—from July 2 to July 15—these regions recorded virtually no rainfall, the longest such dry spell this century. This surpasses previous dry runs since the late 1990s, with data for July 16 pending, potentially extending the rain-free period.
Scientists warn that climate change is driving these shifting weather patterns, intensifying heatwaves, droughts, and dryness. Following a record warm spring and repeated heatwaves, vegetation is highly susceptible to igniting into fast-moving wildfires. The NFCC urges the public to avoid disposable barbecues, dispose of cigarettes safely, and to manage litter responsibly. They also encourage parents and carers to educate young people about fire safety and respecting natural spaces.
“Most wildfires are preventable,” an NFCC spokesperson stressed. “Simple responsible actions from everyone can help safeguard communities, protect wildlife habitats, and reduce the burden on our firefighters who are working tirelessly this summer.”
Water supply concerns persist as several hosepipe bans take effect across southern England. Current reservoir levels in England stand at 79%, about five percentage points below the long-term average for this time of year. Six reservoirs, including Wimbleball (Somerset), Grafham (Cambridgeshire), and Hanningfield (Essex), are classified as having “notably low” levels, with Blagdon (Somerset) at an “exceptionally low” status.
While no formal drought has been declared, the Environment Agency is ramping up drought response efforts. The National Drought Group is scheduled to meet on July 20 to assess ongoing conditions and potential resource management.
As the UK prepares for cooler weather, vigilance remains essential to mitigate wildfire risks and manage water resources during this unusually dry and hot summer.