Cardiff Weather
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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 14 June 2026 by the Pressorbit weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
The UK’s maritime climate means Cardiff rarely sees extreme heat or cold, but the city’s location near the Bristol Channel brings more cloud and rain than many inland areas. The live forecast above shows the current conditions, and the figures below explain what they typically mean throughout the year.
What the live forecast above actually means
The widget displays temperature, wind speed, humidity and precipitation probability for Cardiff at this moment. If you see a high chance of rain, that reflects the moist Atlantic air that frequently pushes across South Wales. For a snapshot of the next few hours, check the “hourly” tab on that live panel — it’s updated every 15 minutes and is more reliable for short-term planning than any written guess.
Cardiff’s climate through the year
Cardiff has a temperate oceanic climate (Köppen Cfb). Winters are cool but rarely freezing; summers are mild and often overcast. The sea breeze from the Bristol Channel moderates both extremes.
Spring (March–May)
Average highs rise from 10°C in March to 16°C by May. Overnight lows hover between 3°C and 7°C. Rainfall is moderate — around 60–70mm per month — but sunny spells become more common from late April. The city’s parks, such as Bute Park, often feel noticeably warmer than the coastal areas.
Summer (June–August)
Typical daytime highs reach 19–21°C, though occasional hot days push above 28°C. Lows stay around 12–14°C. July is the warmest month but also one of the wettest, with roughly 70mm of rain. Thunderstorms can develop quickly when warm, humid air meets Atlantic fronts.
Autumn (September–November)
Temperatures drop from 18°C in September to 10°C by November. Autumn is the windiest season – gusts over 40mph are not unusual, especially in exposed parts of Cardiff Bay. Rainfall increases through October (85–90mm) and November (90–100mm).
Winter (December–February)
Daytime highs average 8–9°C; lows drop to 2–4°C. Frost occurs on about 20–30 nights per year, usually inland rather than near the coast. Snow is rare and seldom settles — Cardiff averages fewer than 10 days of lying snow per year. Prolonged cold spells happen every few years, often linked to high pressure over Scandinavia.
Does it rain a lot in Cardiff?
Yes — Cardiff receives roughly 1,100mm of rain per year, compared to the UK average of about 1,000mm. However, the rain is spread across many days, with around 150–160 wet days annually (a wet day is one with at least 1mm of rain). That’s a little higher than London, but lower than cities on the west coast of Scotland. Weather warnings for heavy rain are issued by the Met Office a few times each year, particularly during autumn and winter storms.
Best time to visit Cardiff
If you want the best combination of warmth, sunshine and low rainfall, aim for late May through early July. September is also pleasant, with fewer crowds and still decent temperatures. Avoid late October to early December if you dislike frequent rain and strong winds. The 10-day forecast will flag any approaching Atlantic systems.
What to pack for Cardiff weather
A waterproof jacket is essential year-round — even in summer, sudden showers are common. In winter, add a warm mid-layer and a hat for the wind in Cardiff Bay. In summer, a light sweater or fleece is still useful for evenings when the sea breeze drops temperatures. Sturdy shoes with good grip help on wet pavements and the hilly paths of Bute Park.
Local microclimate notes
Cardiff sits in a relatively sheltered coastal plain, protected from the worst Welsh mountain weather by the Brecon Beacons to the north. However, the city’s position on the Bristol Channel means that fog can be more frequent than in inland areas, especially in spring and autumn. The CF14 postcode area (north Cardiff, around Heath and Llanishen) is slightly cooler and wetter than the city centre due to its higher elevation — if you’re checking BBC Wales Cardiff weather or a local forecast, note that conditions can vary by a degree or two across the city.
Frequently asked questions
What will the weather in Cardiff be like tomorrow?
The live forecast above gives the most accurate hour-by-hour prediction for tomorrow. In general, Cardiff’s weather changes quickly due to Atlantic fronts, so check the “tomorrow” tab on the widget. Expect a typical mix of cloud, some rain, and a breeze — summer or winter, that’s the norm.
How reliable is the 10–14 day forecast for Cardiff?
Beyond about 7 days, the confidence drops significantly. The 10-day forecast is useful for spotting broad trends (e.g., unsettled vs settled) but not for exact timing of rain. For a 14-day outlook, treat the second week as a general indication only — Atlantic lows can change course unpredictably.
Are there any weather warnings in place for Cardiff right now?
Check the UK weather warnings page for any active Met Office alerts. Cardiff is most often affected by rain and wind warnings. Yellow warnings for rain occur several times each winter; amber warnings are rarer but happen when deep Atlantic depressions move across South Wales.
How does Cardiff’s weather compare to Bristol’s?
Cardiff and Bristol’s weather are very similar, as they sit on opposite sides of the Bristol Channel. Cardiff tends to be slightly cloudier and receives about 50mm more rain per year. Both cities share the same maritime influences, so if it’s raining in Bristol, it’s probably raining in Cardiff too.
