September Among the UK’s Warmest on Record
September 2026 was provisionally the joint fourth warmest September on record in the United Kingdom, according to Met Office figures. The UK recorded a mean average temperature of 14.6°C, which was 1.6°C above the long-term average.
The month continued an exceptional run of warm weather, with September becoming the eighth consecutive month in 2026 when the average UK temperature was more than 1°C above normal.
Temperatures Remain Above Average
Temperatures stayed consistently above normal throughout September, although there were no prolonged periods that met the official criteria for a heatwave. The highest temperature of the month reached 28.6°C in Northolt, London, on 6 September.
Northern Ireland also experienced unusually warm conditions. A temperature of 25.5°C was recorded at Helen’s Bay on 21 September, the latest date on record for a temperature above 25°C in Northern Ireland.
2026 Could Become One of the Warmest Years
The unusually warm September adds to a broader pattern across the UK in 2026. The Central England Temperature record, one of the world’s longest temperature datasets, shows that every month so far this year has been warmer than average.
The Met Office says the pattern is consistent with more frequent above-average temperatures as the climate continues to change. If warmer conditions continue, 2026 could rank among the UK’s warmest years on record.
Rainfall Varied Across the UK
Overall UK rainfall during September was close to average, at around 104% of the long-term average. However, rainfall varied significantly between regions.
Scotland received nearly 40% more rainfall than average, while parts of eastern England and Yorkshire experienced much drier conditions. Lincolnshire received only around 30% of its usual September rainfall.
Drought Concerns Continue
Despite rainfall in September, water shortages remain a concern across parts of England and Wales. The Environment Agency has warned that several weeks of unsettled weather are not enough to reverse the water deficits caused by a dry spring and exceptionally hot summer.
More rainfall than normal over the coming months would be needed to significantly improve drought conditions.
Outlook for the Coming Months
The Met Office has indicated that warmer-than-average conditions could continue through autumn and into early winter. Climate scientists are also monitoring the influence of El Niño, which can contribute to higher global temperatures.
With temperatures remaining well above average throughout 2026 so far, the UK’s weather pattern will continue to be closely watched as the year progresses.
