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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the StoryShift weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
A weather radar detects precipitation by sending out radio pulses and measuring the echoes from rain, snow or hail. The live radar above shows current rainfall intensity across the UK, updated every five minutes.
How does the UK weather radar work?
The Met Office network of 15 radar stations covers the whole of Britain. Each radar emits a narrow beam that scans the atmosphere, returning data on the location, intensity and movement of precipitation. The live radar above displays this information as colour-coded bands – lighter blues indicate drizzle, while reds and purples signal heavy downpours or thundery rain. The system also detects snow, though returns are weaker because snowflakes scatter less energy. For winter travel, checking the live weather radar snow overlay helps you decide if routes near Manchester or London are likely to be affected.
When is the best time to use a live weather radar?
Spring and autumn are the most changeable seasons, when frontal systems sweep across the country. Checking the live weather radar UK before a day out can save you from a soaking. Summer thunderstorms often develop rapidly, so the radar gives crucial short-notice warnings. In winter, the weather radar snow UK feed is invaluable for planning drives or walks. For international trips, the weather radar world view on the Met Office site covers Europe and the Atlantic. The BBC Weather radar is a popular alternative, but the source data is the same Met Office network.
Can I see the weather radar near London specifically?
Yes – the live radar above covers the entire UK. You can zoom in on London using the interactive map controls to see local rainfall intensity and movement.
Is the weather radar the same as the BBC Weather radar?
BBC Weather uses the same Met Office radar data, but may present it with different colours and a slightly slower update. The live radar above is the direct Met Office feed.
Does the radar show snow accurately?
Snow returns are weaker than rain, so light snowfall may not appear. Heavier snow bands show clearly. Use the weather radar snow layer if available on the live map.
Sources
For more detail, see our UK weather hub and 10 day weather forecast UK pages.