The UK might experience one last heatwave before the end of the month, according to the Met Office. This potential heatwave comes as parts of mainland Europe, including France, Spain, and Italy, have been hit by extreme heat. This heat is being driven by a high-pressure system known as a 'heat dome,' which forms when warm air from North Africa rises and creates a dome-like effect over a region, trapping the heat and suppressing cloud formation. This system has already led to temperatures exceeding 40°C in some parts of Spain and Portugal earlier this month. The Met Office reports that a deep low-pressure system is forming west of the UK, which could bring warmer air from the continent and the subtropical Atlantic. This warmer air is expected to move over the UK over the weekend and into the following week, leading to mostly dry and sunny conditions. Temperatures could reach the upper 20s by the end of next week, giving the UK a "final taste of summer" before the season ends. However, the heatwave may not last long. A colder front from the west is expected to arrive at some point, though its timing is still uncertain. Once this front arrives, the weather is likely to become more changeable, with spells of rain and showers alternating with periods of drier, more settled weather. Temperatures should then return to near-normal levels. This year has seen back-to-back heatwaves across the UK and much of Europe, causing exceptionally dry conditions and posing serious public health risks. According to the Met Office, 2026 was the hottest summer on record for the UK, with average temperatures across June, July, and August reaching 16.5°C. The heat dome phenomenon, which has been a significant factor in these extreme temperatures, is now beginning to break down, though some areas are still experiencing above-average temperatures for this time of year. Looking ahead, the Met Office's five-day forecast shows variable weather across the UK. On Friday, sunny spells are expected, with cloud and rain affecting Northern Ireland and moving eastwards, though the southeast will stay mostly dry. Windy conditions with coastal gales in the North West are also anticipated. On Saturday, cloud and light rain or drizzle will remain in southern England and Wales, with brighter conditions in the east. The weekend will bring a mix of sunny spells and showers, with winds expected in the north. From Sunday to Tuesday, the UK can expect dry but cloudy conditions, with some overnight rain, followed by more cloud with occasional sunny spells and lighter winds, and a slight warming trend.