Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 20 June 2026 by the Headlines UK weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
A rain radar shows where precipitation is falling right now across the UK. The live radar above updates every few minutes, letting you track rain intensity, movement, and whether it will reach your location soon.
How does the rain radar work?
The Met Office network of weather radar stations scans the atmosphere using microwave pulses. These bounce off rain, snow, sleet and hail. The returning signal is converted into a live weather radar UK map. Colours indicate intensity: light blue for drizzle, red and purple for heavy downpours. The 3 hour rain radar loop helps you see how weather systems are moving.
How to use the rain radar for your area
You can check rain radar at my location by zooming into the map above or typing a postcode. The rain radar live feed is more reliable than a one-off forecast for short-term planning. For a wider view, the rain radar Europe overlay shows systems approaching from the Atlantic, and the rain radar world view is useful for tracking longer-range patterns. Combined with the bbc weather forecast, you get a fuller picture of what to expect.
Is the rain radar accurate for my exact location?
The radar resolves to about 1 km², so it is very good for general areas. Local hills or buildings can slightly distort the signal, but it remains the best live tool for checking rain radar uk.
Why does the radar show rain that isn’t reaching the ground?
Radar detects precipitation high in the atmosphere. In dry air, some rain evaporates before hitting the ground (virga). The live data is still useful for timing, but ground reports confirm actual arrival.
Can I use the radar to plan outdoor activities?
Yes. Check the 3 hour rain radar loop to see if a band of rain will pass before you head out. Combine with the 10 day forecast for longer planning.