Temperatures will be closer to normal values after a hot start, but the bulk of the rain doesn't fall where it's needed the most.

The contrast we have seen recently is set to continue this week. While western and northern areas see spells of rain and brisk winds at times, southern and eastern regions are likely to stay drier and sunnier.

Tuesday is another hot day in the south and east, with plenty of sunshine pushing temperatures into the high 20's or low 30's across southeastern and eastern England.

Cloud and outbreaks of rain will meanwhile move across Ireland, Wales and northern parts of the UK. Even a few heavy, thundery downpours are possible through the day.

Fresher air will finally arrive in the south and east on Wednesday with some cloud and a few showers moving through as well.

Further north and west, renewed outbreaks of rain are expected as winds become strong and gusty at times, especially around the coasts and over higher ground.

Looking ahead, the northwest-southeast split is likely to continue into the latter half of the week. Further showers or longer spells of rain should affect Ireland, northern England and Scotland.

Southern and eastern parts of England will see plenty of dry and bright or sunny conditions with only a few passing showers.

Unfortunately, this also means that the areas most affected by the ongoing drought are likely to miss out on the heaviest rainfall.