Edinburgh 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 United Kingdom’s maritime climate means weather can shift quickly, and Edinburgh is no exception. The live forecast above shows current conditions, but planning for the week ahead demands understanding the city’s particular mix of North Sea influence and topography. Expect cool summers, mild winters, and rain spread fairly evenly through the year.
What the live forecast is telling you
The live conditions above are updated regularly and give you the immediate temperature, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, and any precipitation. For Edinburgh, the most useful numbers to watch are the wind gust speed – the city can feel noticeably windier than inland spots – and the “feels-like” temperature, which factors in wind chill. The widget also shows a rolling view of the next few hours, so you can see whether a band of rain is moving in from the west.
Rainfall through the year
Edinburgh receives around 700–750 mm of rain annually, which is lower than the Scottish average (roughly 1,200 mm) thanks to the rain shadow cast by the Highlands and the Southern Uplands. Wettest months are September to January, each typically seeing 65–75 mm. Driest are April to June, with monthly totals closer to 45–55 mm. Snowfall is sporadic, averaging 10–15 days of lying snow each winter, mostly in January and February.
Seasonal temperature ranges
Spring (March–May): daytime highs climb from 9°C in March to 14°C in May, with overnight lows ranging 2–7°C. Frost is possible into early April. Summer (June–August): highs average 17–19°C, with July the warmest month at around 19°C. Night lows stay above 10°C. Autumn (September–November): temperatures fall from 16°C in September to 8°C in November, with increasing wind and rain. Winter (December–February): highs hover around 6–7°C, lows near 1–2°C, though air frost is common on clear nights.
How maritime weather plays out in Edinburgh
Because the North Sea and the Firth of Forth surround Edinburgh, the city experiences a moderating effect: summers are cooler than inland Scottish towns, and winters are milder. But this also brings persistent cloud and occasional haar – a sea fog that can blanket the city in minutes, especially in spring and early summer. The prevailing south-westerly wind often picks up moisture over the sea, so even a forecast of “sunny intervals” can turn damp without warning. For the most reliable view, check the 10-day forecast and watch for low-pressure systems moving in from the Atlantic.
Best time to visit and what to pack
Late May to early September offers the best balance of mild temperatures (15–19°C) and longer daylight hours, with sunset after 9pm in June. Even then, bring a waterproof jacket and layers – a T-shirt, jumper, and a windproof shell will cover most days. In winter, a warm coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes are essential. For UK weather hub comparisons, note that Edinburgh tends to be drier than Glasgow but windier and cloudier than London.
Local microclimate notes
The city’s hills create small variations. The Royal Mile and Old Town, sheltered by Arthur’s Seat and the castle rock, can feel several degrees warmer than exposed areas like the Water of Leith Walkway or the Forth bridges. The EH12 postcode area (Corstorphine, Murrayfield) sits slightly higher and gets more wind, while the southern suburbs near the Pentland Hills can see earlier frost and more frequent haar. For a precise view, check UK weather warnings before heading into the hills.
How reliable are extended forecasts for Edinburgh?
The 10-day forecast gives a good indication of broad trends – cold snaps, settled spells, or Atlantic storms – but confidence drops sharply after day 5. The met office weather edinburgh forecast is typically updated twice daily and is the most authoritative source. For longer outlooks, such as edinburgh weather forecast 14 days or even edinburgh weather forecast 21 days, treat them as guidance: the general pattern (dry or wet, mild or cold) is useful, but day-to-day precision is low. The bbc weather 21 day forecast edinburgh is a similar long-range product designed for planning, not packing.
What is the weather in Edinburgh tomorrow?
You can see the detailed outlook in the live forecast above. Generally, tomorrow’s weather in Edinburgh follows the same maritime pattern: expect a mix of cloud and some rain, with highs around 7–19°C depending on the season. The most accurate view comes from the met office weather edinburgh forecast, which is updated every few hours.
How accurate is the weather in Edinburgh 10 days out?
A 10-day forecast for Edinburgh has moderate skill for temperature trends and the timing of major weather fronts, but the exact timing and location of showers become uncertain after about day 5. Use the 10-day view to plan activities that can flex, and always check the live forecast above the day before.
Does it rain a lot in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh receives about 700–750 mm of rain a year – less than the Scottish average but more than London. Rain falls on roughly 120–130 days per year, but it’s often light drizzle rather than heavy downpours. The city’s reputation for grey skies is well earned, but prolonged dry spells do occur, especially in late spring.
