Frost, wind and rain forecast as autumn warmth fades for many

Ben Rich and Matt Taylor report that a spell of unseasonably warm weather across the United Kingdom is giving way to typical autumn conditions. Temperatures have climbed to around 25 °C in parts of England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland over the past few days. A weather front delivering outbreaks of heavy rain for some areas on Wednesday is expected to move eastwards, dragging cooler air in its wake. Daytime highs will remain close to the late‑September average for most regions, although a few cold nights are forecast with the possibility of frost on Thursday morning. By the end of the week a partial rebound in warmth is anticipated, with southeast England likely to see a return to the mid‑20s °C. **Heavy downpours usher in cooler air** The rain associated with Wednesday’s front will be locally heavy and thundery, though little if any precipitation is expected to affect the southeast. Elsewhere, highs of 14‑20 °C are predicted, in line with the seasonal norm. After a run of milder nights, a sharp autumn chill on Thursday morning may come as a shock to many. Clearer skies and lighter winds following Wednesday’s rain will allow temperatures to fall back into single figures across much of the country, although those values will still be comparable to typical late‑September lows. In eastern Scotland, particularly around the Grampians, temperatures could dip low enough for a coating of frost on the grass. Sunny intervals will gradually ease the chill, leaving much of England and Wales dry and bright on Thursday, while strengthening winds increase cloud cover over northwestern parts of the UK. Rain is likely later in western Scotland and Northern Ireland, with gales possible in coastal districts. **Is there any late‑September heat on the horizon?** A milder start to Friday will see daytime temperatures again reach the mid‑20s °C in southeast England as a ridge of high pressure builds. Elsewhere, readings will stay in the mid to high teens, accompanied by considerable cloud and occasional rain. Temperatures will remain near the seasonal average through the period, feeling pleasantly warm during sunny spells. Saturday may bring additional showers to many western areas, and Sunday is expected to see further rain spreading across the country at various times. Looking ahead to next week and the final days of September, forecasters see no indication of any significant unseasonable warmth. A few pleasantly warm and sunny days are still possible during the first half of the week, but overall the pattern is expected to be changeable, with northwestern and western regions potentially experiencing windier conditions at times. For the latest updates, consult the BBC weather website or app.