Wednesday, 5 August 2026 · Morning editionLondon ⛅ 23°CGBP/USD 1.3446 · GBP/EUR 1.1677About UsOur TeamSourcesContactNewsletter

Extreme Weather

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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the WordPatch weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.

🌦️20°C
Light drizzleExtremeraFeels like 22° · Wind 6 km/h · Humidity 91%
UV 2 LowSunrise 07:09Sunset 21:32
Today🌦️20°17°💧18%
Thu🌦️21°17°💧3%
Fri🌤️26°14°💧0%
Sat☁️30°19°💧15%
Sun🌦️24°18°💧25%
Mon☁️27°17°💧19%
Tue🌤️27°19°💧1%

Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·

Extreme weather describes severe or unseasonal conditions that pose a risk to life or property, from heatwaves to storms. These events are becoming more frequent in the UK. The live forecast above shows current conditions, so check it before travelling.

What counts as extreme weather?

Extreme weather examples include heatwaves, heavy rain causing floods, storms, blizzards and prolonged drought. In geography, extreme weather is defined as weather that is rare for a particular time and place. Recent extreme weather events in the UK include the 2022 heatwave and Storm Eunice. In London, extreme weather events recently have also seen flash flooding. For a broader picture, visit the UK weather hub.

How should UK travellers prepare?

Pack layers and waterproofs, especially if heading to exposed areas. Monitor the extreme weather map and forecasts. Allow extra time for delays. Check school holiday dates to avoid peak crowds if travelling in unsettled conditions. For a week ahead, use the 10 Day Weather Forecast UK.

UK Heatwave Record40.3°C at Coningsby, July 2022
Flood RiskOver 5 million properties in England at risk of flooding
Storm NamesMet Office names storms since 2015 (e.g. Storm Arwen)
Cold SpellLowest UK temperature -27.2°C at Braemar, 1895 and 1982
Is extreme weather becoming more common?

Yes, climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. The UK has seen more heatwaves, heavy rainfall and storms in the last 10 years. The live forecast above reflects current extreme weather today.

What is the difference between extreme weather and climate?

Extreme weather is a short-term event; climate describes long-term patterns. Geography studies how both interact. Extreme weather events in the last 10 years show a clear link to a warming climate.

Where can I get official warnings?

The Met Office issues yellow, amber and red warnings. Check the live forecast above, or visit the UK weather hub for updates on extreme weather events recently and upcoming.