Seasons & weather
UK weather: coasts, hills and changing seasons
UK weather often changes as Atlantic systems cross the country, but one forecast cannot represent every coast, island or hillside. This country section covers the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland. Choose a place for local temperatures, rain timing, wind and the forecast for tomorrow.
Regional differences matter
Western coasts and upland areas are more exposed to many incoming Atlantic systems. Hills can enhance rainfall while nearby sheltered areas experience something different. Eastern and southeastern districts, island communities and high Scottish ground each need their own local context. Even a short journey may cross a meaningful change in weather.
Rain radar and outdoor plans
Use the rain radar to follow the movement of precipitation, then compare it with the local hourly forecast. Passing showers can leave one neighbourhood wet and another dry. A future radar frame is a short-term estimate, and a quiet image does not guarantee that new showers will not develop.
For walking or coastal travel, consider wind gusts, cloud, temperature and visibility together. A town forecast does not describe conditions on an exposed summit. A wind map also does not replace the relevant marine, mountain or transport information.
Seasons without a fixed script
Summer can bring heat, thunderstorms and dry spells as well as cool, wet periods. Winter hazards include strong winds, ice, snow and heavy rain. Snow depth on a model map is different from falling snow or the condition of a specific road. Spring and autumn can change quickly between relatively mild and much cooler air.
Read the official warning details
The Met Office issues UK weather warnings using yellow, amber and red. The colour reflects a combination of likely impacts and the likelihood of those impacts, not a universal rainfall or wind threshold. Read the area, time window and advice. Flood information also comes from the relevant national and local agencies; a weather warning and a flood warning are different products.