Wales 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 ·
Cardiff weather is mild and changeable, shaped by its maritime position. The live forecast above gives the latest temperature, wind speed, and rain chance for the city right now. Expect highs ranging from 8 °C in winter to 21 °C in summer, with rainfall spread fairly evenly across the year.
What does the live forecast show for Cardiff right now?
The live conditions above update in real time and show the current temperature, wind direction and strength, humidity, and the likelihood of rain over the next few hours. For a fuller picture, check the 10‑day table which includes daily highs, lows, and precipitation totals. This is the same data you would see on a BBC Wales weather live feed, presented in a clear, no‑surprise format. You can also find a video summary similar to the BBC Wales weather forecast video by clicking the play button on the widget.
How does Cardiff’s climate change through the year?
Cardiff’s climate is typical of south‑east Wales: mild winters, cool summers, and rain in every season. The maritime influence from the Bristol Channel keeps temperatures moderate compared with inland areas.
Spring (March–May)
Average highs rise from 10 °C in March to 17 °C by May. Overnight lows start near 3 °C and reach 8 °C. Rainfall is moderate, with about 60–70 mm per month. Spring is often the sunniest season, though March can still feel chilly.
Summer (June–August)
Highs average 19–21 °C, with occasional spells reaching 27 °C. Lows are around 12–14 °C. June is usually the driest month (55 mm), while August can be wetter. The warming influence of the city centre can push temperatures 1–2 °C higher than the official Met Office station at Bute Park.
Autumn (September–November)
September remains pleasant (highs 18 °C), but by November highs drop to 10 °C and lows to 4 °C. October is often the wettest month of the year, with around 90 mm of rain. Fog can form in the mornings, especially near the River Taff.
Winter (December–February)
Highs sit around 7–8 °C, lows near 2 °C. Frost occurs on around 20–30 mornings per year, but snow is rare – usually light dustings that melt quickly. December is the dullest month, with only about 50 hours of sunshine. Rainfall remains steady at 70–80 mm per month.
When is the best time to visit Cardiff?
For the most reliable dry weather and comfortable temperatures, May and June are ideal. The city’s parks and the bay are at their best, and daylight lasts until late evening. September is also good – warm enough for outdoor events without the summer crowds. If you don’t mind occasional rain and want lower accommodation prices, late spring and early autumn offer a good balance. The wettest period is October to January, but even then, showers tend to be short and interspersed with brighter spells.
Does Cardiff have a local microclimate?
Yes, but the differences are subtle. The city centre and Cardiff Bay are slightly warmer than the surrounding countryside, especially on clear nights (urban heat island effect). The Bristol Channel also moderates temperatures along the coast, so Penarth and Barry can be a degree cooler in summer and a degree milder in winter. The valleys to the north – such as the Taff and Rhondda – tend to be cooler and wetter, with more frost in winter. These local variations matter most when planning a day trip or a longer stay.
What will the weather be like tomorrow in Cardiff?
For a reliable answer, check the live forecast above – it includes the forecast for tomorrow and the next few days. Typically, you can expect a high around the seasonal average (e.g., 20 °C in June, 8 °C in January) with a chance of showers. The 10-day forecast gives a more detailed breakdown of wind and rain timings.
Does it rain a lot in Cardiff?
Cardiff receives about 850 mm of rain per year – less than many western parts of Wales (e.g., Snowdonia gets twice that) but more than London (600 mm). Rain falls on roughly 140–150 days annually, usually as light to moderate showers. The wettest months are October and November, while April and June tend to be drier.
Does Cardiff get snow?
Snow is uncommon in Cardiff. Most winters see just one or two days when snow settles, and it rarely lasts more than 24 hours. The city’s coastal location and low elevation keep temperatures above freezing for most of the winter. If snow does fall, it often melts quickly on roads and pavements. For the most accurate outlook, refer to the UK weather warnings page.
What is the 14‑day outlook for Wales?
The 10-day forecast part of the live widget above is updated frequently and gives the best forward view. For a 14‑day outlook, you can combine the 10‑day data with the long‑range trend shown in the Met Office’s monthly assessment. Remember that beyond 7–10 days, confidence in exact temperatures and rain timings is low – the general pattern (mild, unsettled, or settled) is more reliable.
For a broader view of conditions across the country, visit the UK weather hub, where you can also explore guides for cities such as Exeter, Cornwall, and the Lake District.
