Record-Breaking Summer
Many hope for an end to the UK’s hottest summer on record, as the country has endured four consecutive heatwaves. As temperatures soared partly due to dry soils, high pressure, and marine heatwave, the government implemented hosepipe bans. As such, communities had to deal with drought and sweltering nights.
Forecast for September
However, relief may be on the horizon. Currently, the Met Office expects a cooler, more unsettled September compared with the summer extremes. In particular, temperatures should hover in the low 20s Celsius.
Between September 4 and 13, forecasters predict changeable weather. Showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds are all possible, especially in western regions. Additionally, hail could strike during passing storms.
Yet not all days will feel unsettled. In fact, some drier, brighter interludes may arrive later in the month. During those breaks, temperatures could rise slightly above average. Still, meteorologists stress that nothing like July’s or August’s heatwaves is expected.
Expert View
Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell explained the outlook for summer clearly. Nevertheless, Snell cautioned that longer-term forecasts remain uncertain. Even so, the indicators suggest a welcome transition to milder, more variable conditions.
Speaking to The Independent, he said, “The week after next is a little bit too early to nail down exactly what will go on. Our general trend though, as we go through to the second week of September, is that, on the whole, for the UK, it is probably going to remain on the changeable, unsettled side of the weather.”
“It looks like there will be some drier and brighter spells at times… It will be early September, so in any sunnier moments, it will still feel fairly warm out there.”
In particular, Snell noted that the period between September 4 and 13 may bring longer rainspells across most of the UK. Rainshowers, thunderstorms, and hailstorms are all likely, should low pressure areas form.
“Some short-lived spells of drier and more settled weather are also possible at times, especially later in the period when they may last a little longer,” Snell added. “Temperatures will likely be close to average or slightly below overall, but may rise above at times in any drier, sunnier spells.”
Broader Implications for Summer
For many, a cooler September offers much-needed relief. Previously, heatwaves strained the health system, raised wildfire risks, and left reservoirs at critically low levels. Furthermore, high overnight temperatures worsened health problems for vulnerable groups.
Still, the summer underscored the reality of climate change, which continues to increase the frequency and intensity of Europe’s heatwaves. According to the Met Office, the chance of extreme UK heat is now at least three times higher than in past decades.
Consequently, experts emphasize the importance of resilience planning. In particular, water infrastructure, transport systems, and healthcare must adapt to handle future extremes. As such, temporary relief in September cannot erase the longer-term trend.
Conclusion
As summer’s record heat fades, September promises cooler and wetter weather. While conditions may still feel warm at times, the break will be welcomed nationwide.
Yet the broader warming trend remains undeniable. Each season highlights the urgent need for adaptation and preparedness in the face of a changing climate.
Photo by Roman Poberezhnik on Unsplash
