Fortnite fans are excited about the release of update 31.10, which should give the new season a much-needed boost. After weeks without any new content from Epic Games, the next Fortnite update is shaping up to be a big one. Of course, it's not all good news, because as a major update, the release of version 31.10 will be accompanied by a lengthy period of server downtime on PlayStation consoles, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Nintendo Switch and mobile. If you're wondering how long server downtime will last and when you can start playing Fortnite again, check out the maintenance schedule below for more information.

READ MORE: Fortnite update 31.10 release date, time, maintenance, patch notes, Doctor Doom, Black Cat

The news was announced by Epic Games on X: "Downtime for v31.10 begins at 4 AM ET with matchmaking ending shortly beforehand."

For UK fans, this means that Fortnite will be taken offline in full at 9am BST, while matchmaking will be disabled at 8.30am UK time.

Indeed, if you want to get as much Fortnite action in as possible, make sure you're in a game before 8.30am BST at the latest.

Epic hasn't revealed exactly when downtime will come to an end, but the reports suggest this week's maintenance will be lengthier than usual.

It's believed Fortnite will be offline for approximately 5-hours, which means no Fortnite, LEGO Fortnite, Rocket Racing and Fortnite Festival until 2pm BST.

On the plus side, fans will be able to download and install the update during downtime, which means you'll be ready to go once servers are back online.

New content includes the release of the season's bonus Doctor Doom skin and the accompanying challenges.

Likewise, the Chapter 5, Season 4 super skins will also join the game, which is good news for anybody with a maxed out Battle Pass.

Fans can also expect one of this season's new Mythic items to be added to the game, with Shuri's Claws coming to the island.

The Black Cat skin will join the item shop, alongside other unannounced skins and items.

Finally, Epic Games will make various gameplay tweaks and bug fixes as part of update 31.10.