Weather watching: summer rainfall remains above average

This year’s unusual weather continued with last weekend’s cloudburst and above average July rainfall, according to Rousay astronomer and weather watcher John Vetterlein.

Mr Vetterlein said: “The trend in erratic weather patterns continues with rainfall for the year so far, up to August 1, 20 per cent above average.

“July itself gave 90.9mm, average 62.85mm, with a local cloudburst on the afternoon of the 29th yielding 14mm in less than 20 minutes.

“Cloud formation has been notable with splendid examples of cumulonimbus, cumulus and altocumulus on July 31 throughout daylight hours.”