The Met Office has warned that yet another heatwave could hit the UK in September, as long-range forecasts suggest a spell of high pressure may move over parts of the country. This would bring dry and warm conditions, potentially marking the sixth heatwave of a record-breaking summer that has left parts of the UK in drought and under hosepipe bans.
Forecast for early September
In its long-range forecast for September 2 to September 16, the Met Office states that the start of meteorological autumn is likely to be rather unsettled. However, signals for prevailing weather patterns soon become weak, with conditions close to the climatological norm becoming most likely.
This points to a broad northwest-southeast split, with higher pressure centred near the south of the UK and lower pressure towards the north or northwest. The north and northwest are expected to see the majority of rain and any strong winds, while the south and southeast are likely to experience the driest and sunniest weather.
Chance of late-season hot spells
Temperatures are expected to be a little above average overall. The Met Office warns: "There is a chance that late season hot spells or heatwaves develop, especially in the south." This follows a summer that has already seen multiple heatwaves, leaving many areas dry and prompting restrictions on water use.
While many may believe the most extreme heat is behind us, the forecast suggests that warm conditions could persist into September. The Met Office's outlook indicates that the south of the UK is most at risk of experiencing another hot spell.
