The Met Office has indicated that the UK could see further hot spells in September, with temperatures likely to remain above average as the country moves into autumn. The latest long-range forecast, covering Saturday, August 29, to Saturday, September 12, suggests that temperatures are "again likely to be above average overall," though forecasters stress there is limited confidence in the exact weather pattern.
Potential for late season hot spells
The forecast highlights "the potential for late season hot spells or heatwaves, especially in the south." There is also a possible divide across the country, with more unsettled conditions in northern and north-western areas, while the south and east could see 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. However, forecasters warn 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.
Recent weather context
The prediction follows a period of notable weather, including three widespread heatwaves and numerous climate records broken by mid-July. Spring 2026 was the warmest on record for England and Wales, and June was England's warmest June on record.
In the coming days, however, the weather is expected to be less settled. Outbreaks of rain will continue for parts of northern Scotland this evening, with more persistent rain affecting Northern Ireland and western Scotland on Saturday night. Most other areas are in for a "mostly dry night" with cooler conditions in the south.
Outlook for the weekend and beyond
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, possibly reaching southern areas overnight.
This will clear to sunny spells and scattered showers throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with temperatures largely near average.
