Dullest October in Almost 60 Years for the UK
According to provisional data from the Met Office, the United Kingdom experienced one of its dullest Octobers on record, with very limited sunshine throughout the month. October began with the first named storm of the season, Storm Amy, setting the tone for a typically unsettled autumn.
The month ended with above-average temperatures, slightly below-average rainfall, and significantly below-average sunshine. Across the country, a total of 63.3 hours of sunshine was recorded, marking the third dullest October since records began in 1910. Only 1960 and 1968 saw less sunshine.
Regional Variations
- Wales and Northern Ireland had their second dullest October on record.
- Northern Ireland received only about 41% of its usual sunshine hours.
- Scotland and Northern Ireland also saw slightly warmer conditions than average.
Expert Commentary
October 2025 has been the dullest October in almost 60 years for the UK. A week of persistent ‘anticyclonic gloom’, combined with unsettled autumnal weather and a named storm, made it only the second month this year, after February, to see below-average sunshine for the UK. Temperatures were above average for October, although not record-breaking, and rainfall for the UK falls just below average, although with much regional variation.
Dr. Emily Carlisle, a Met Office scientist, explained that while rainfall was slightly under the seasonal norm, temperatures remained around 0.7°C above the long-term mean.
Summary
October 2025 brought the UK its dimmest skies in decades, marked by persistent cloud cover, mild temperatures, and limited autumn sunshine.
Author’s Summary: Despite mild temperatures, October 2025 became one of the UK's gloomiest months since 1960, highlighting shifting weather patterns and reduced sunshine levels.