Met Office predicts 'late season heatwaves' for September in UK 'especially in the south'

Met Office predicts 'late season heatwaves' for September in UK 'especially in the south' Another hot spell may be on the cards this autumn, with the Met Office warning high pressure could bring 'the potential for late season hot spells or heatwaves' Britain could be heading for yet another hot spell in September, with forecasters warning temperatures could remain above average as the country heads into autumn. The Met Office says there is potential for the UK to see further hot spells at the start of next month, with areas in the south facing the greatest chance of heatwave conditions. Its latest long-range forecast, from Saturday, August 29, to Saturday, September 12, says temperatures are "again likely to be above average overall" - but stressed there is still limited confidence over the exact weather pattern. There is also "the potential for late season hot spells or heatwaves, especially in the south". The forecast points to a possible divide across the country, with more unsettled conditions developing in northern and north-western areas while the south and east could enjoy drier weather. The Met Office says "drier, more settled weather is slightly more likely towards the south and east," with high pressure potentially becoming centred further south. But forecasters have warned that the signals remain weak, meaning "something close to the climatological norm is the current preferred story". In other words, a September heatwave is possible but not guaranteed. The latest prediction comes after the UK experienced three widespread heatwaves and numerous climate records already broken by the mid July. Spring 2026 was the warmest on record for England and Wales, while June was England's warmest June on record. In the coming days however, the weather is expected to be less settled, with outbreaks of rain continuing for parts of northern Scotland this evening. More persistent rain will batter Northern Ireland and western Scotland on Saturday night, while most areas elsewhere are in for a "mostly dry night" with cooler conditions in the south. On Sunday, cloudy conditions are expected across Scotland and Northern Ireland with some showery light rain. Elsewhere, warm spells of hazy sunshine are forecast, with light winds making conditions pleasant for many. Rain will continue moving across Scotland and Northern Ireland on Monday, and could even reaching southern areas overnight. This will clear to sunny spells and scattered showers throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with temperatures largely near average.