The UK is gearing up for cooler temperatures just as millions of drivers hit the roads for their summer holidays. The RAC estimates that 14.1 million motorists will travel for holidays or day trips between Friday and Sunday, marking the second highest volume since the RAC began tracking data in 2016.
Schools across England and Wales have either recently broken up or are about to do so, while Scotland and Northern Ireland have already ended their academic year. Saturday is expected to be the busiest travel day, with 3.8 million planned journeys, while Friday and Sunday each anticipate 3.4 million.
At the Port of Dover, outbound car numbers are forecast to climb from 7,500 on Friday to nearly 10,000 on Saturday. The RAC predicts intense leisure traffic particularly in south-west and north-west England. Despite Friday seeing the UK’s 13th consecutive day over 30°C—with Herefordshire’s Ross-on-Wye hitting 31°C—temperatures will ease over the weekend. Forecasts show highs around 24°C in London and Cardiff, 21°C in Manchester, and 23°C in Glasgow.
So far in 2026, the UK has experienced 28 days exceeding 30°C—7 in May, 8 in June, and 13 in July—nearing the all-time record of 34 such days set in 1995.
This prolonged heat and dryness have increased wildfire risks. National Resilience data records nearly 499 wildfires in England and Wales since January 1, 2026. Although lower than the 748 fires during the same period last year, fire activity remains elevated compared to prior years, with figures of 81 in 2024, 242 in 2023, and 400 in 2022 by mid-July.
Central and south-east England are experiencing the longest uninterrupted rain-free spell this century, with an average of zero rainfall over 14 consecutive days—from July 2 to July 15. This breaks regional records since a 15-day dry stretch in south-east England in April 1997 and a 14-day spell in central England in June 1996.
Scientists warn that changing climate patterns are responsible for these extreme weather events. Successive heatwaves and a record-warm spring have dried out vegetation, making it highly susceptible to fast-spreading wildfires. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) urges the public to avoid disposable barbecues, safely extinguish cigarettes, and properly dispose of litter to reduce fire risks. They also encourage educating young people about fire safety to protect communities and natural habitats.
In addition to wildfire concerns, water supplies are under pressure. Several hosepipe bans have come into effect across southern England. Current reservoir levels stand at 79%, about five percentage points below the long-term average for this time of year. Six reservoirs, including Wimbleball in Somerset, Grafham in Cambridgeshire, and Hanningfield in Essex, are notably low, while Blagdon reservoir in Somerset is at an exceptionally low level. Although no drought is officially declared, the Environment Agency is increasing drought response activities, and the National Drought Group plans to meet on July 20 to assess conditions.