Many parts of England are set to see the first widespread rainfall in over a month this week, a return that could result in flooding while still in an official drought.

Showers are becoming more visible from Wednesday, with heavier and potentially thundery outbursts, on Thursday. These pass through many regions under a drought declaration and water use restrictions.

After months of unusually hot and dry conditions, the ground soil will not be able to efficiently absorb this rainfall. Instead, the baked and parched ground will allow the water to collect, possibly leading to flash floods in some areas.

A return of showers is also not going to meaningfully improve the drought situation any time soon.

Currently, 71% of England is in drought according to the Environment Agency, with taps running dry in parts of Kent while Wisley, Surrey has just seen the first rain in 62 days.

To sufficiently recover ground moisture and reservoir levels, which as of August 13th were resting at 65% of capacity, more sustained rainfall is needed.

In the meantime, the risk of flash floods will persist where coming showers turn heavy. Keep one eye on the WeatherRadar to see when they reach your area.