Home › Weather › Weather Radar UK
Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Story Native weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Check the live radar above to see rain, cloud and snow moving across the UK right now. Weather radar uses microwave pulses to detect precipitation, giving you real-time insight into what is heading your way so you can plan ahead with confidence.
How does weather radar work and what can it show me?
Radar stations emit short pulses of microwave energy that bounce off raindrops, snowflakes or hailstones. The returning signal reveals the location, intensity and movement of precipitation. The live radar above updates every few minutes, so you can track whether rain is approaching your area, see bands of snow across higher ground, or check how quickly a shower cell is racing towards Manchester or London. Many people use weather radar to decide when to walk the dog, leave for work or cover the garden.
Where can I see different types of weather radar near me?
The UK Met Office operates the national network, and their live weather radar UK Met Office feed is what powers most forecasts. For a broader picture, weather radar world maps let you see storms over Europe or the Atlantic. If you are looking specifically for weather radar snow UK or weather radar snow in winter, the radar colours shift from green (rain) to pink or white (snow). Many people also check weather radar BBC for a user-friendly overlay. To zoom in on a city, try weather radar near London or weather radar near Manchester on the live view.
Why does the radar show rain that isn’t falling here yet?
Weather radar detects precipitation aloft – often a few thousand feet up. Rain can evaporate before reaching the ground, especially in dry air. That’s why the live radar above is best used alongside surface observations.
Can weather radar predict snowfall accurately?
Radar detects the movement of snowflakes, but the type of precipitation at ground level depends on air temperature. A weather radar snow echo may turn to sleet or rain if the air warms up. Always check the temperature profile too.
Is the live radar above free to use?
Yes, the live radar above is freely provided. It pulls data from the Met Office network, the same source used by weather radar BBC and other major forecasters. No subscription is needed.
For the latest outlooks see our UK weather hub, check BBC Weather UK, or plan ahead with Weather Tomorrow UK and the 10 Day Weather Forecast UK. Stay informed with Moderate Rainfall Warning updates.