Regional heat wave ends Monday as rain returns, but drought continues

The regional heat wave across the Netherlands is set to end officially Monday as cloudy skies and rain move in, according to Weeronline. Showers will return throughout the coming week after a long stretch of sunny and very warm summer weather. However, Weeronline says that the incoming rain is not enough to end the ongoing drought.

Monday will be cloudy with rain falling in many places. Precipitation later shifts eastward, allowing sunshine to break through. Temperatures will reach 19 to 22 degrees Celcius. Showers may persist inland.

Tuesday will again see highs of 19 to 22 degrees under cloudy skies, with more showers arriving for the first time in a long period. Locally, more than 10 millimeters of rain is possible.

The rain will not eliminate the drought, Weeronline said, but it will ease conditions somewhat. The moisture will wet the dry surface layer of soil, allowing later rain to soak in more readily.

Wednesday will begin with periods of rain, followed by occasional sunshine. Temperatures will rise slightly to 20 to 22 degrees.

From Thursday onward, rain is expected daily, with thunderstorms also possible. Heavy downpours can occur in short periods. Coastal areas will see frequent rain, while inland regions will remain drier more often.

Sunshine will appear between showers. Highs will range from 20 to 23 degrees, typical temperatures for the second half of August.