Azores High will deflect Atlantic lows this week as Manchester takes 21.9mm and London reaches 22°C

A dominant Azores High will deflect Atlantic depressions northwest over Iceland this week, creating a classic north-south split. Manchester will take 21.9mm, while London stays largely dry. Saturday will bring the warmest conditions, with London reaching 22°C. Could next week bring an even hotter spell for late September?

After a warm weekend, temperatures plunged on Tuesday as lows ushered in polar air. However, the Azores High is reasserting its influence, keeping the atmospheric tug-of-war alive.

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Consequently, the UK faces a classic divide: persistent frontal rain and cool maritime conditions across Scotland and Northern Ireland, contrasting with settled spells and a noticeable rebound in temperatures across southern and eastern England this weekend.

A calm start before the lows arrive

Wednesday will open under the influence of a departing Scandinavian low off Norway, producing lingering cloud cover and light scattered showers across central regions, with 1.1mm in London and 2.4mm in Manchester.

Wednesday will be a quieter day, with well-spaced isobars showing calm conditions. In the bottom left, the Azores High has regained significant presence, while the low that will arrive on Thursday is visible in the top left.

The Azores high pressure to the southwest will prevent significant rain from reaching southern coasts, though a new Atlantic low will arrive the next day (map above). As this day is a transition period, the wind will be calm (see video).

Polar air will continue to suppress temperatures, with many cities below 20°C, though Brighton