A broad swath of the UK faces thunderstorm warnings as a drought persists, with heavy rain forecast to bring the first meaningful rainfall in some time.

Water authorities seek a drought order for the River Severn to curb abstractions by 5% and cap canal withdrawals, aiming to conserve water and protect habitats amid falling reservoir and river levels.

The UKEndures its fifth heatwave of the summer, reaching a record 38.1C at Kew Gardens, underscoring intensifying extremes linked to climate change.

The Environment Agency warns of possible local surface-water flooding on Wednesday that could affect land, roads and properties.

Thunderstorms may trigger rapid indoor flooding, floodwater damage, lightning and hail, and could disrupt rail and bus services, with road closures and power outages possible.

A shift from high to low pressure is expected to bring more widespread rainfall and cooler days, with chillier nights later in the week.

Showers are unlikely to lift hosepipe bans; extended rainfall is needed to replenish water levels.

Rainfall totals will be highly variable, with some areas seeing 20–30mm or more if showers stall over the same locations while others miss them.

The Environment Agency reiterates concern for Severn habitats and farming communities, urging earlier use of Temporary Use Bans to protect supplies and the environment.

Forecaster notes unsettled weather due to warmer, more humid air moving north, increasing the likelihood of heavy rain from Wednesday onward.

Rising river levels trigger flood warnings and alerts across multiple rivers and regions, including Millingford Brook, Crossens, the Lower River Wear, and nearby tributaries.

Sustained, significant rainfall is needed to alleviate drought, as heavy showers can cause flash flooding on hardened ground.