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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 20 June 2026 by the BritView weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
If you’re after the most precise view of where rain is falling right now, the live radar above offers near-real‑time data straight from the Met Office. It’s the quickest way to see whether you’ll need an umbrella in the next hour.
How does the Met Office rainfall radar work?
The Met Office operates a network of ground‑based radar stations across the UK that send out pulses of microwave energy. When those pulses hit raindrops, hail or snow, a signal bounces back, giving a picture of precipitation intensity. The live radar above updates every five minutes, so you can track showers as they move in from the Atlantic or develop over land. It’s the same data the Met Office uses for its official forecasts and warnings.
What can I see on a live UK radar map?
The colour scale on the radar tells you how heavy the rain is – light drizzle appears pale blue, while intense downpours show as red or purple. You’ll also spot bands of rain, isolated showers and, in winter, snow. The radar covers the whole of the British Isles, including London, so you can zoom in to see met office rainfall radar london specifically. For a broader picture, combine it with the Weather Radar UK page or check the BBC Weather UK feed for added context.
Common questions about the Met Office radar
Is the live radar above the same as the Met Office weather satellite?
No. Radar measures precipitation on the ground, while satellite imagery shows clouds from space. The Met Office weather satellite UK view is useful for seeing approaching fronts, but the radar is better for knowing if rain will hit your town in the next 15 minutes.
Can I use the Met Office rainfall radar for free?
Yes – the live radar above, and all Met Office radar data, is freely available. There’s no subscription or sign‑up required. The official Met Office app and website also provide free access, so you can check met office weather satellite uk free whenever you need it.
Does the Met Office radar show snow and hail?
Yes. The radar can detect frozen precipitation, though it’s less accurate for light snow. In winter, the colour scale adjusts, and the Met Office adds snowfall warnings to help you plan. For a closer look, head to the Moderate Rainfall Warning page.
For an evolving picture over the next few days, combine the radar with the 10 Day Weather Forecast UK or check tomorrow’s outlook on our Weather Tomorrow UK page. If you’re curious about where the sun is shining, the Warmest Place In Uk Today page offers a useful counterpoint.