Cool, wet, and windy weather expected across UK as meteorological summer ends

Meteorological summer has concluded across the UK, marked by a return to unsettled conditions following a recent surge in temperatures. After Sunday saw heat levels approach 29C (84F) in south-east England, low-pressure systems are set to dominate the week ahead, bringing wet and windy weather, particularly to northern regions.

The week begins with falling pressure and a shift in wind direction as a weather front moves down from the north-west. This system will sweep across England and Wales, bringing cloud cover and occasional showers, though sunny intervals are expected. Temperatures in the south-east will peak around 25C. Meanwhile, heavier rain will develop in Northern Ireland on Monday morning, spreading to Scotland and Cumbria by afternoon. Strong, gusty southwesterly winds will keep temperatures in Scotland and Northern Ireland lower, around 17C.

Tuesday will see a deep low-pressure area remain north-west of Scotland, driving particularly windy conditions in the north. Gusts of 50-60mph are possible in northern and western Scotland. While such winds are typical for the season, funnelling through the central lowlands could cause disruption. Frequent showers will accompany the wind in these areas, while rain lingering in south-east England from overnight will clear during Tuesday morning.

Despite the rain, much of England and all of Wales remain under drought conditions. The forecast improves midweek as the low-pressure system moves into the North Sea. Wednesday is expected to be largely dry for most of the country, with rising pressure bringing sunshine and lighter winds, although the east coast may remain breezy.

Showers are anticipated to return to western parts of the UK on Thursday but are expected to fade by Friday as they shift eastward. From midweek onwards, temperatures should near the seasonal average, with highs of 22C in the south-east.

Last week was recorded as the wettest on record for England since early February, according to the Environment Agency. In contrast, Spain experienced its highest temperature of the year so far, reaching 45.7C in Huelva.