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Indian Summer Uk Weather

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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Trade Wire UK weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.

The live forecast above shows whether a spell of unseasonably warm, settled weather is expected in the UK. An Indian Summer is officially defined as a warm, calm period occurring after the first frosts of autumn, most often in September or October.

What is an Indian Summer in the UK?

In British meteorology, an Indian summer refers to a brief period of unusually mild, dry and sunny weather that arrives after the first chill of autumn has set in. The Met Office does not use a strict temperature threshold, but the term generally describes a spell of high pressure that brings settled conditions when you would normally expect cooling temperatures and more unsettled weather. For 2025, forecasters watch for a blocking high to stall over the UK, drawing up warmer air from the south.

Why is it called Indian Summer?

The phrase likely dates back to the 18th century in North America, referring to periods when Native American tribes would hunt or harvest before winter. It crossed into British usage in the 19th century. Some people now ask is the term Indian Summer offensive; while it remains widely used in UK weather reporting, alternatives such as “late summer warmth” or “second summer” are increasingly preferred by some meteorologists and media outlets.

Typical TimingLate September to mid-October
Key FeatureClear skies, light winds, above-average temperatures
CauseStagnant area of high pressure (blocking anticyclone)
DurationUsually 3–7 days, occasionally up to 2 weeks
When does an Indian Summer usually happen in the UK?

Typically between late September and mid-October, after the first noticeable frosts. It is less common in November, though mild spells can occur. Check our 10 Day Weather Forecast UK for the latest outlook.

How is an Indian Summer different from normal autumn warmth?

An Indian summer follows a period of colder, frosty weather, making the warmth feel more remarkable. Normal autumn warmth is simply a continuation of mild conditions without the preceding cold snap.

Will there be an Indian Summer in the UK in 2025?

It is too early to confirm. Long-range models watch for a blocking high over Scandinavia or the Atlantic. For the most reliable update, refer to the live forecast above and our UK weather hub.