Belfast 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 ·
Belfast sits on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland, where the North Atlantic Drift keeps winters milder than inland spots but also brings frequent cloud and rain. The live forecast above shows current conditions; here is what to expect through the year, from typical highs and lows to the best times to visit.
What is the typical climate in Belfast?
Belfast has a temperate maritime climate, strongly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. The city sees moderate temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 8°C in January to 19°C in July. Overnight lows rarely drop below 2°C in winter or climb above 13°C in summer. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly across the months, though the wettest period tends to be from October to January, with each of those months averaging 80–90 mm of rain. The driest months are typically April to June, each receiving around 55–65 mm.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Belfast starts cool and gradually warms. March averages 9–10°C, climbing to 14–15°C by May. Night frosts are possible in early spring but become rare by late April. Rainfall is moderate, with April often the driest month of the entire year. Sunshine hours increase noticeably, especially in May, making it a pleasant time for outdoor walks around the city centre or along the Lagan.
Summer (June to August)
Summer temperatures are modest by UK standards. June averages 17°C, July 19°C, and August 18°C. Heatwaves are uncommon; the mercury rarely exceeds 25°C. Rainfall is still frequent – about 10–12 rainy days per month – but showers tend to be short and interspersed with sunny spells. The long daylight hours (sunset after 9 pm in June) mean you can often enjoy evening dry spells. For the most reliable conditions, check the live forecast above and the 10-day forecast before planning outdoor activities.
Autumn (September to November)
September often brings a brief Indian summer, with highs around 16–17°C. By November, temperatures drop to 9–10°C and the rain becomes more persistent. October is one of the wettest months, with frequent Atlantic low-pressure systems. Winds pick up, especially along the coast, but the city centre is slightly sheltered. If you’re checking the bbc weather belfast or met office weather belfast forecasts in autumn, pay attention to the wind speed and rain intensity.
Winter (December to February)
Winters in Belfast are damp and chilly but rarely severe. Average highs hover around 7–8°C, with lows near 2–3°C. Snow is infrequent – typically one or two days a year – and often doesn’t settle for long. Frost occurs on clear nights, but the maritime influence keeps temperatures above freezing most of the time. Rainfall remains high, and overcast days are common. For longer-range planning, the belfast weather 15 days or 21 day weather belfast outlooks can give a sense of the general pattern, though accuracy diminishes beyond 10 days.
Best time to visit Belfast
For the most comfortable temperatures and the highest chance of dry weather, May through September are the best months. May and June offer the most sunshine and the least rain. July and August are warmer but also busier with tourists. If you don’t mind cooler conditions and want lower accommodation prices, September and early October can still be pleasant. Whenever you come, pack a waterproof jacket and layers – the weather can change quickly, as the live conditions above will often show.
Local microclimate notes
Belfast city centre, especially around the Cathedral Quarter and the Titanic Quarter, is slightly warmer and less windy than the surrounding hills due to the urban heat island effect. However, the city’s position at the head of Belfast Lough means that sea breezes can moderate temperatures in summer. The bbc weather belfast city centre forecast is usually representative, but if you’re heading to the Antrim Coast or the Mourne Mountains, expect cooler and wetter conditions – check the UK weather warnings for any severe weather alerts.
How does the weather in Belfast compare to other UK cities?
Belfast’s climate is similar to that of western UK cities such as Glasgow or Liverpool, but it tends to be slightly cooler in summer and milder in winter than inland locations. The city’s annual rainfall (around 950 mm) is lower than in the western Highlands but higher than in eastern England. For a broader view of UK weather patterns, visit the UK weather hub.
What is the weather in Belfast tomorrow?
For the most accurate answer, refer to the live forecast above, which updates in real time. The weather in belfast tomorrow typically follows the same maritime pattern: expect a mix of cloud, some rain, and temperatures within a few degrees of today’s. Overnight lows will be around 5–8°C in spring and autumn, 2–5°C in winter, and 10–13°C in summer.
Can I get a reliable 10-day or 14-day forecast for Belfast?
Yes – the bbc weather in belfast 10 days and bbc weather belfast 14 days forecasts are widely used. Note that confidence decreases after day 7, but the general trend (e.g., unsettled, dry, mild) is often useful. The accuweather belfast and met office weather belfast also provide extended outlooks. For planning, check the 10-day forecast a few days before your trip.
Does it rain a lot in Belfast?
Belfast receives about 950 mm of rain annually, which is similar to Manchester or Cardiff. It rains on roughly 150–160 days a year, but many days have only light drizzle rather than heavy downpours. The rain is spread throughout the year, so you can expect some precipitation on most trips – but also plenty of dry spells between showers.
