Mild and dry weather is forecast to stay this month as high pressure builds ahead of possible flooding over the winter.
Daytime temperatures are predicted to be above average for October this week as a warm spell is forecast to bring highs of 21C to London on Thursday.
But a band of rain in the South East is set to drop temperatures back down to chillier highs of 15C in London and 12C in Manchester this weekend.
The Met Office long-range weather forecast suggests the second half of October will see high pressure across most of the UK.
This high pressure will bring dry weather for many, perhaps with some overnight mist and fog patches, according to the forecaster.
While there may be some rain, this is predicted to fall in the far south, or perhaps far north, of the UK.
Winds are also expected to be mostly light and temperatures are likely to be average for the time of year, with some frosty mornings.
High pressure is forecast to dominate the start of November with many areas seeing dry weather. But changeable and unsettled weather patterns bringing showers and longer spells of rain are expected later in the month.
However, the temperatures could stay warm in late autumn with forecasters predicting it to be a little above normal for the period.
Despite the mostly dry and warm conditions this October, a government-chaired taskforce will meet this week to assess how prepared the UK is for flooding this winter.
The group aims to strengthen the UK’s resilience to flooding and drought after record temperatures and widespread drought hit the country this summer and ahead of an expected wet winter.
It comes as the Met Office warned of a “heightened potential” for wet, windy, stormy weather and flooding in the coming months – and the Environment Agency has urged households to check their flood risk, sign up to alerts and make a flood plan to prepare for any emergencies.
Met Office five-day weather forecast
Tuesday
A band of rain, turning heavy at times, moves across England and Wales today, turning brighter and fresher after the rain clears. A windy afternoon follows with heavy showers moving into the North and a risk of thunder.
Tuesday night
Showers ease in the North tonight, with clear spells across the country. Mist and fog patches will develop in the South, and winds strengthen in the North.
Wednesday
Staying dry for many with warm sunny spells and patchy cloud. Winds strengthening in the North, with coastal gales developing in northern Scotland. Heavy rain moves into north-west Scotland later.
Thursday to Saturday
Winds fall lighter as a band of rain slowly moves south across the country. Cooler air moves in by Friday, with largely dry and bright weather for the weekend.
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