Rain could return to Salisbury over the next few days after record-breaking heat

After a period of very hot and dry weather, Salisbury could finally see some rain over the coming days, although the latest forecasts suggest it may be relatively limited at first.

The forecast for Tuesday 18 August indicates a chance of showers, with further unsettled conditions possible on Wednesday and Thursday. The Met Office is also forecasting showery rain clearing to warmer sunshine on Tuesday across the South West.

Thursday could bring a few showers, while Friday 21 August currently looks more likely to bring rain, with some forecasts indicating a wetter spell developing.

The change in weather will come as Salisbury and much of the UK have experienced a prolonged period of hot, dry conditions, putting pressure on water supplies and increasing the risk of wildfires.

The return of rain could provide some relief for gardens, farmland and local water supplies, although the amounts forecast over the next few days may not be enough to completely reverse the effects of the recent dry weather.

Current forecasts show that conditions could become drier again over the weekend, with Saturday and Sunday looking generally brighter and more settled.

The longer-range outlook suggests another potentially wetter period could develop later in the month, but forecasts this far ahead can change considerably.

For Salisbury residents hoping for rain, the next few days therefore look mixed: there is a chance of showers during the middle of the week, with a better chance of more widespread rain around Friday.

With the recent hosepipe restrictions introduced by Wessex Water following record demand and low rainfall, any significant rainfall will be closely watched by residents and water authorities.