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Monday, 5 October 2026 · Morning editionLondon ⛅ 19°CFTSE 100 10,494 +0.63%GBP/USD 1.3201 · GBP/EUR 1.1760About UsOur TeamSourcesContactNewsletter

Is Summer Over

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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 20 June 2026 by the Civic Affairs weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.

For most practical purposes, summer is not over in the UK. Meteorological summer ends on 31 August, but astronomical summer continues until the autumn equinox on 22 September 2026, meaning you can still expect warm spells and the possibility of a late heatwave.

When does summer officially end in the UK?

There are two definitions. Meteorological summer (June, July, August) ends on 31 August, which is why many forecasts refer to September as autumn. Astronomical summer runs from the summer solstice (around 21 June) to the autumn equinox (around 22 September). For weather planning, the Met Office uses the meteorological calendar, so by that measure summer is over on 1 September. However, warm weather often persists into September, and the 90-day weather forecast UK models suggest above-average temperatures could continue into early autumn.

Will there be another heatwave in 2026?

It is still possible. The question “when is the next heatwave uk 2026” depends on high-pressure systems building from the south. Late August and early September can bring settled, warm conditions, especially in southern England. While no major heatwave is currently forecast, the answer to “when is the next heatwave in the uk” remains: keep an eye on the 10-day forecast for any sudden shifts. For those asking “will summer 2026 be hot uk”, the season has been mixed so far, but a late surge is not ruled out.

Meteorological summer ends31 August
Astronomical summer ends22 September 2026
Average September high (London)19°C
Last recorded September heatwave2023 (34°C)

Is summer over yet? (The cultural question)

The phrase “is summer over yet” gained pop-culture traction from the Zara Larsson song, but in practical UK terms, the answer depends on where you live. In Scotland and northern England, summer conditions often fade by late August, while southern regions can enjoy warm, settled weather into mid-September. For a local view, check the Birmingham weather or Glasgow weather pages. The broader answer to “is summer over in uk” is: not quite, but the best of the heat is likely behind us.

Is summer over in the UK right now?

If you follow the meteorological calendar, summer ends on 31 August. If you use the astronomical calendar, summer continues until 22 September. Warm spells are still possible in early September.

When is the next heatwave in the UK 2026?

No major heatwave is currently forecast, but late August and early September can bring short warm spells. Check the 10-day forecast for the latest updates on any developing high-pressure systems.

Will summer 2026 be hot in the UK?

Summer 2026 has been average to warm so far, with no prolonged heatwave. A late warm spell in September is possible but not guaranteed. For long-range trends, refer to the 90-day weather forecast UK models from the Met Office.