Britain set for SIXTH heatwave as Met Office says record-breaking summer will continue after gloomy week of rain

A SIXTH heatwave could grip Britain next month as record-breaking temperatures may continue into Autumn. The Met Office has warned of a potential heatwave in September according to its long-range weather forecast. A sixth heatwave has been predicted for Britain Credit: Alamy Woodhead reservoir near Manchester has been affected by the dry conditions Credit: AP Following showers and long spells of rain this week, the mercury could climb high as we enter the autumn period due to high pressure – particularly in the south. However, it’s too early to predict just how severe a sixth potential heatwave could be. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! The forecaster said: “As we move into the start of meteorological autumn, signals for the prevailing weather patterns affecting the UK are weak, thus something close to the climatological norm is most likely. “This means a broad northwest-southeast split in conditions, with the high pressure becoming centred close to the south of the UK and more changeable conditions developing towards the north and northwest. Rain is predicted for much of the country next week Credit: PA September could see the mercury rise again Credit: Andrew Styczynski “Meanwhile, drier, more settled weather is slightly more likely towards the south and east. Temperatures are likely to be above average overall. “There is a chance that late season hot spells or heatwaves develop, especially in the south.” It comes after an increased amount of rain is expected to fall this week, making its way across the country, bringing breezier conditions. From Monday onwards, the north will see cloud and outbreaks of heavy showers, which will gradually move southward. Most read in The Sun The Met Office added: “Temperatures are more likely to be above normal than below overall, though the possibility of widespread or exceptional heat is lower than in recent weeks.” There is predicted to be widespread rain on Thursday after nearly three-quarters of England and the entirety of Wales is facing drought. In response to the dry conditions, over 27million Brits currently face hosepipe ban restrictions. These have been enforced by nine water companies to prevent unnecessary water use. Last week, the UK saw temperatures reach highs of 38C in the country’s fifth heatwave of the year last week. A rare amber alert for heat was issued across the nation, and two trains derailed within 24 hours. The first incident occurred on Thursday in Lewes, East Sussex with two seriously injured, and the second happened in Wickford, Essex. Network Rail bosses have suggested the heat may have been to blame and investigations are under way. Comment now