The Met Office has described July 2026 as a “remarkable month” following a prolonged heatwave, exceptionally low rainfall, and widespread drought conditions across the UK.
The bulletin, sent to subscribers via the GovDelivery email service, flagged the month’s combination of sustained high temperatures, very limited rainfall and drought stretching across a broad geographical area. An early look at the statistics, as the Met Office put it — with a fuller analysis still to come.
No specific temperature figures, rainfall totals or regional breakdowns were included. The drought was described as “widespread,” but the bulletin didn’t quantify the area affected or name a single county.
For Kent, the national picture still matters. The Met Office bulletin makes no specific reference to Kent or any other county, which is rather the point — when drought is this widespread, everyone’s in it.
The full statistical breakdown for July 2026 is expected from the Met Office in due course.
Key information
- Full statistical analysis of July 2026 is expected from the Met Office in due course
- General enquiries can be directed to enquiries@metoffice.gov.uk
- Subscription technical issues should be directed to subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com
Met Office calls July 2026 'remarkable' after heatwave and drought grip UK Quiz
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