The Met Office has shared its verdict on how long the warm weather will last, with temperatures remaining mild for this time of year as October begins this week. After a rather mild start to autumn, with temperatures hovering around 20C, the forecast points to a notably warm day on Tuesday, potentially reaching 27C in some areas.
This week, rain will sweep across the UK, expected to be heaviest in the North West during the early hours of Wednesday, September 29. Despite the unsettled conditions, the warmth is set to persist, with the Met Office's long-term outlook indicating temperatures "warmer than average" for the start of October.
Tuesday and Wednesday Forecast for Liverpool
In its outlook for Tuesday and Wednesday in Liverpool, the Met Office said: "A bright start, especially in the north, however cloud will quickly move in from the south. The cloud will produce some spot of rain, with murky conditions over the hills. Winds freshening later but a warm day for most. Maximum temperature 22 °C."
For Tuesday night, the forecast added: "Dry with clear spells this evening, before heavy rain sweeps across the region overnight, accompanied by strong winds for a time. Remaining mild for late September. Minimum temperature 10 °C."
Wednesday's outlook reads: "A wet start, with difficult travelling conditions in places. The rain will clear throughout the morning, with a mix of sunny spells and the odd shower following. Winds also easing. Maximum temperature 22 °C."
Warmth Driven by Atlantic Low Pressure
Met Office chief forecaster Matthew Lehnert said: "A deep area of low pressure far into the Atlantic is the primary driver behind the UK’s weather over the next few days. Its first influence will help pull some warmer air over much of the country on Tuesday, with a peak of 27C likely – which is notably warm for the time of year. A warm night will follow across southern and eastern areas, with minimum temperatures of 19°C in places."
As October gets underway on Thursday, temperatures are expected to remain mild. The rain is forecast to hold off, with "dry and fine weather" expected heading into the weekend as high pressure builds.
High Pressure Brings Settled Weekend
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Steven Keates said: "There’s a good degree of confidence that high pressure will become more dominant over the weekend with lots of dry and fine weather for many. Temperatures will generally be around average for the time of year, with this high pressure likely to linger for at least the start of next week."
The autumnal equinox took place on September 22 or 23, marking the official meteorological start of autumn. In its long-term forecast for the start of October, the Met Office said it will be "warmer than average", with changeable conditions likely giving way to higher pressure and a more settled period. This is expected to lead to a drier than average period overall, with lighter winds, though some interludes of unsettled weather and stronger winds remain possible.
