When will it rain next?

Across much of the UK, this spring has been unusually dry. While the sunshine has been welcome for many, it’s also raised concerns, particularly for farmers, gardeners, and anyone relying on regular rainfall.

Why Has It Been So Dry?

The main reason for the dry weather is a persistent area of high pressure that’s been dominating our skies since the end of February. High pressure systems bring descending air, which suppresses cloud formation and keeps rain at bay. This particular system has become what meteorologists call a “blocking high”—a stationary pattern that prevents other weather systems from moving in.

This blocking high has been reinforced by an amplified jet stream—a high-altitude current of fast-moving air that normally helps steer weather systems. When the jet stream becomes wavy or “meanders,” it can trap high pressure in place, leading to prolonged dry spells like the one we’re experiencing now.

READ MORE: Why has spring been so warm and dry so far this year?

So, When Will It Rain?

Let’s take a look at the forecast for the coming days. While the overall pattern remains dry, there are a few hints of moisture on the horizon:

• Thursday: Expect early cloud in central and eastern areas, which should break up or retreat to the coast. Most areas will stay dry with plenty of sunshine. It will be cool along the North Sea coast but warm elsewhere, especially in the northwest.
• Friday: Similar to Thursday. Some early cloud in the east may linger, but inland areas will brighten up. Again, dry and sunny for most, with warm temperatures in the west and northwest.
• Saturday: Still mostly dry. Western areas will enjoy long sunny spells, while the east may see more cloud. There’s a slight chance of light drizzle early or late in the day, especially in the east.
• Sunday: A bit more variation. Most areas will remain dry, but there’s a low chance of isolated afternoon showers in the north and northwest. Light drizzle is also possible early or late in the east. The west will likely stay sunniest and warmest.

Can you spot the difference? 👀

There's very little change in the weather over the comings days but will you see any cloud or hold onto wall to wall blue skies? 👇 pic.twitter.com/GNP6pHqNs8

— Met Office (@metoffice) May 13, 2025

How Likely Is Rain?

In short: don’t expect widespread rain just yet. While a few areas might see a brief shower or some drizzle, most of the UK will remain dry through the weekend and likely into next week.

So, when will it rain? The short answer is: not just yet. While there’s a small chance of light showers in some areas this weekend, the dominant high pressure system is holding firm. If you’re hoping for rain, you may need to wait a little longer.

Looking further ahead however, there are signs that this prolonged dry spell could begin to break down toward the end of next week, with rain and stronger winds potentially arriving from the west or south, possibly bringing further thunderstorms.

READ MORE: Can the weather affect our mental health?

As we move into the latter part of the month, the long range outlook suggests a gradual shift toward more unsettled weather. Western regions may see more frequent rain and showers, while the south and east could still maintain drier spells. That said, occasional rainfall and even thunderstorms are possible across the country. Temperatures are expected to remain around or slightly above average for the time of year, but the return of more typical spring weather may finally bring some relief to those hoping for rain.

In short: don’t expect widespread rain just yet. While a few areas might see a brief shower or some drizzle, most of the UK will remain dry through the weekend and into next week. 

Keep up to date with weather warnings, and you can find the latest forecast on our website, on YouTube, by following us on X and Facebook, as well as on our mobile app which is available for iPhone from the App store and for Android from the Google Play store.