The Met Office has issued its latest long-range forecast, warning of potential late-season heatwaves across the UK, particularly in southern areas. The prediction covers Saturday, August 29, to Saturday, September 12, as the UK transitions into meteorological autumn.
Above-average temperatures likely
Weather experts say there is currently limited certainty over the precise weather pattern, but temperatures are "again likely to be above average overall." The Met Office says there is also "the potential for late season hot spells or heatwaves, especially in the south."
Its extended-range prediction suggests the nation could see a broad north-west to south-east divide emerge, with more turbulent weather towards northern and north-western regions. The Met Office said the weather signals are currently weak, meaning "something close to the climatological norm is the current preferred story," reports the Express.
Southern areas may see drier conditions
Nevertheless, the southern and eastern parts of the UK could be more likely to experience dry and stable conditions as high pressure becomes positioned further south. The forecast states "drier, more settled weather is slightly more likely towards the south and east," while more variable conditions are anticipated towards the north and north-west.
This means the summer heat could persist into early September. However, the Met Office has not forecast a definite heatwave. Long-range forecasts are less accurate than short-term ones. The Met Office has emphasised predictions beyond five days can't provide the same level of local detail because minor changes in atmospheric conditions can significantly impact UK weather.
Warm summer so far
This latest forecast follows an exceptionally warm summer thus far. Earlier this summer, the Met Office reported 2026 had already seen "three widespread heatwaves and numerous climate records already broken" by mid-July. Spring 2026 was the hottest on record for England and Wales, while June was England's warmest June ever recorded.
In tonight's forecast, sunny intervals are expected before clouds thicken across the north-west, bringing some rain and drizzle. Skies should stay clearer in the south, while temperatures become slightly cooler for most. Sunday is predicted to be cloudier across Scotland and Northern Ireland, with some light showery rain. Elsewhere, warm periods of hazy sunshine are forecast, with light winds making conditions enjoyable for many.
No guarantee of heatwave
Looking further ahead, the Met Office currently anticipates temperatures to be more likely above normal than below. The chance of another spell of summer-like weather therefore remains a possibility even after the official start of meteorological autumn. However, forecasters have emphasised the September outlook is not a guarantee of a heatwave. Rather, it suggests the broader atmospheric pattern currently favours above-average temperatures, with southern areas holding the greatest potential for late-season warmth.
