Met Office gives verdict on September heatwave as 'hot spells' forecast

Summer may be drawing to a close, but Brits could still be in for a scorching September - with the Met Office giving its verdict on the chance of another heatwave .

Forecasters say early September could be a washout, with longer and heavier spells of rain, strong winds and even thunderstorms across parts of the UK. But the unsettled weather may not last, with the latest outlook suggesting temperatures could climb again in the weeks ahead.

In its outlook for August 28 to September 6, the Met Office says temperatures are likely to be near average, but "some short-lived warm spells are possible, especially in the south".

And the prospect of hot weather remains further into September. The agency's outlook for September 2 to September 21 says unsettled conditions are expected to continue at first before drier weather could become more common, particularly across the south and southeast.

Temperatures could also rise above normal later in the period, with the forecaster warning of "the possibility of some hot spells in the south".

While the Met Office hasn't officially predicted a September heatwave, its latest outlook suggests the door remains open for another spell of summer-like weather - especially across southern parts of the UK.

It comes after a summer which has already delivered repeated bouts of extreme heat, with temperatures soaring and rainfall levels plunging across the country.

Large parts of the UK have been left dealing with drought conditions after prolonged periods of exceptionally dry weather, putting further pressure on water supplies.

But before any potential late-summer warmth arrives, the UK could have to endure a much more unsettled start to September.

The Met Office says rainfall amounts are likely to be above average for the time of year, while some strong winds could return.

"Showers or longer spells of rain are possible across many parts of the UK, along with some strong winds," the forecaster says.

"Some heavy bursts and thunderstorms are likely at times. It will likely remain changeable into early September, with rainfall amounts probably above average for the time year and the potential for some more strong winds at times."

"However, some drier, more settled interludes could develop at times. Temperatures are likely to be near average, although some short-lived warm or hot spells are possible, especially in the south."