As the UK approaches the end of meteorological summer on Monday, a change in weather is expected to bring rain and strong winds across much of the country, marking a shift from the preceding hot and dry conditions. Forecasters predict a largely unsettled bank holiday weekend, with heavy showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds anticipated across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and parts of Scotland.

The Met Office has issued warnings of heavy, thundery downpours moving eastwards across England and Wales beginning Saturday morning, with southern England likely to experience the most significant wind gusts, reaching speeds of up to 35 mph. While Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to see mainly dry but cloudy conditions on Saturday, the wettest weather is forecast for the North West, Northern Ireland, and north-west Scotland on Sunday. Temperatures are expected to remain mild, ranging between 20°C and 22°C throughout the weekend and into Monday.

Meteorologist Annie Shuttleworth noted the likelihood of persistent breezy conditions across the UK on bank holiday Monday, particularly in northern areas, which could affect outdoor activities, including music festivals. Coastal gales are also possible along parts of the Scottish coastline as the weekend concludes.

The change in weather comes after a prolonged period of drought and heat, with almost three-quarters of the UK still classified as drought-affected by the Environment Agency (EA). August rainfall has been notably low, registering at only 34% of the typical amount for the month so far. The relief brought by the recent rain is welcome, although the EA reported that many drought conditions persist across England and Wales.

Despite initial concerns, flooding risks have largely diminished. A prior yellow thunderstorm warning, which covered much of Wales and extended north into Yorkshire and Lancashire as well as areas in the south such as Norfolk and Gloucestershire, was lifted by Saturday evening. The EA removed its earlier 33 flood warnings, leaving 16 flood alerts mainly concentrated around the Midlands.

Filey in North Yorkshire recorded the highest rainfall within a 12-hour period ending early Friday morning, receiving 55 millimeters of rain, according to Met Office spokesman Oli Claydon.

As the UK shifts into the cooler, wetter conditions typical of the season’s close, residents and visitors are advised to monitor local forecasts and prepare for seasonal changes, especially those attending outdoor events over the holiday weekend.