Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the The UK Daily weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
The live radar above shows where rain is falling across the UK right now, updated every few minutes. It uses a network of ground-based stations to detect precipitation, giving you a clear picture of what’s heading your way, whether you’re planning a walk or just wondering if the garden needs watering.
How do I read the rain radar?
The colours on the live radar above indicate intensity: light blue for drizzle, green for steady rain, and yellow or red for heavier downpours. The animation lets you see where bands of rain are moving, typically from west to east, so you can gauge when it might reach your location. For a detailed look at the next few hours, the weather radar UK page offers a three-hour loop.
What does the radar show beyond rain?
Most UK radars also pick up sleet and snow, shown as white or pink patches, and can sometimes detect hail. The live data is combined with satellite imagery to give you a fuller picture of cloud cover. If you’re checking conditions across the continent, the 10 day weather forecast UK page links to rain radar Europe and rain radar world views, useful for travel planning.
How accurate is the rain radar at my location?
Accuracy is generally high within 50 km of a station, but hills and buildings can cause slight distortions. The live weather radar UK is best used as a short-term guide for the next hour or two, not a precise minute-by-minute forecast.
Can I see a 3 hour rain radar forecast?
Yes, the Met Office and BBC Weather both offer a 3 hour rain radar loop, which shows predicted movement of precipitation. Check the BBC Weather UK page on our site for direct links to these forecasts.
Does the radar work at night?
Yes, radar uses radio waves, not visible light, so it works 24/7. The live feed on our page is always running, though heavy rain can sometimes weaken the signal slightly, leading to fainter returns on the display.