UK braces for unseasonal October heatwave: Here's what you need to know about 'return to summer'

The UK is preparing for another bout of unseasonal hot weather, with Met Office forecasts predicting temperatures exceeding 25°C over the weekend. This warm spell, which is well above the average for this time of year, is being described as a "return to summer" for parts of the country.

Why is October so hot?
According to Professor Liz Bentley, CEO of the Royal Meteorological Society, unusually warm weather in October could become more common in the UK. This particular heatwave is a result of high-pressure systems caused by well-above-average temperatures in mainland Europe, particularly in countries like France and Spain. Bentley noted that this is a concerning signal of climate change.


While it's unlikely that monthly temperature records will be broken this year, daily temperatures not seen for over a century could occur. For example, the last time the UK experienced a 26°C day on October 8th was in 1921. Such warm weather in October is rare but could become more frequent in the coming years.

Which areas will be the warmest?
The South-East of England is expected to experience the highest temperatures, with most areas in the early to mid-20s°C. However, northern cities like Newcastle and Leeds are also forecasted to reach at least 20°C. Typically, an October day in the north sees temperatures around 13°C, while the South experiences 16-17°C. The current forecast of 26°C and 22°C, respectively, is highly unusual.

How long will this weather last?
The hot weather will peak over the weekend, with temperatures returning to normal next week. Although it won't be classified as a heatwave due to its short duration, it's expected to coincide with the weekend, which many may find enjoyable. People are advised to use sunscreen when spending extended periods outdoors, as even a brief spell of high temperatures can pose health risks. Additionally, some parts of Scotland may even see snow in the coming days.