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.
Xc Weather is a cross-country weather forecast service, primarily used by glider, hang-glider and paraglider pilots to assess thermal activity and wind conditions. The live forecast above shows current conditions; for flying, the key takeaway is that Xc Weather models predict thermal strength, cloud base and wind speed at specific altitudes.
How does Xc Weather work?
Xc Weather uses numerical weather prediction models to output variables critical for soaring flight: thermal updraft velocity, cloud base height, boundary layer depth and wind shear. Unlike general forecasts, it focuses on the lower atmosphere (surface to around 3,000 metres) where gliders operate. The practical takeaway: check the “thermal” and “Cu” (cumulus) parameters in the live forecast above — these tell you whether conditions will support sustained cross-country flight.
Which UK areas does Xc Weather cover?
Xc Weather provides forecasts for the whole UK, with particularly detailed data for popular flying sites. You can check xc weather glasgow for the Campsie Fells, or xc weather bristol for the Mendips. For northern sites, xc weather sheffield covers the Peak District, while xc weather liverpool is useful for coastal ridge flying. The xc weather 14 day forecast gives a longer-range outlook, though thermal predictions become less reliable beyond three days.
Is Xc Weather only for glider pilots?
No — anyone interested in low-level atmospheric conditions uses it, including drone operators, kite surfers and paraglider pilots. The xc weather map live feature shows real-time thermal activity useful for outdoor planning.
What does “xc weather inverness” show?
For Inverness, Xc Weather outputs thermal strength over the Highlands and wind direction for sites like Glencoe. It’s particularly useful for assessing sea-breeze convergence near the Moray Firth.
Is there an xc weather app?
Yes, Xc Weather offers a mobile app for iOS and Android, providing the same forecast data in a portable format. It includes push alerts for changing thermal conditions at your saved locations.