Temperatures could reach 28C in a brief late burst of warmth

Some parts of the UK could reach 28C on Sunday as summer-like warmth briefly returns. A southerly wind will draw hot, humid air from continental Europe and push temperatures well above the early-September average.

The hottest areas in south-east England could reach 27C or 28C, while temperatures across much of England and Wales should reach the mid-20s. South-west England and eastern Wales could reach 25C, and northern England is expected to remain in the low 20s. Eastern Northern Ireland and the Moray Firth could see highs of about 21C or 22C.

The warmth comes as central and southern Europe experience intense heat. Spain recorded its hottest day of 2026 on Thursday, when Huelva in the south-west reached 45.7C. The hottest parts of Spain are expected to remain above 40C this weekend and early next week, while parts of southern France could reach the high 30s and possibly 40C.

For the UK, low pressure approaching north-west Scotland will bring heavy rain to northern Scotland and morning showers farther south. Western Scotland will turn unseasonably blustery, with gusts of up to 40 to 45 mph. Later, the wind will turn southerly, allowing sunshine across much of England, Wales and eastern Scotland to lift temperatures.

The spell will not last. As high pressure moves east, the low-pressure system will push more weather fronts across the UK. North-west Scotland will become even windier on Monday, with coastal gales possible.