Met Office weekend sports fixtures forecast

The first day of the weekend brings a mixed bag of weather, with persistent rain, gusty winds, and the occasional bright spell.

Let’s break down the forecast for Saturday’s and Sunday's Premier League fixtures as well as the Semi-final of the Women's Rugby World Cup.

Liverpool vs Everton (12:30pm)
The Merseyside derby kicks off under a blanket of cloud, with rain becoming increasingly persistent and heavy as the day progresses. Localised surface water flooding and travel disruption are possible, especially later in the afternoon. Winds will strengthen, with a risk of coastal gales overnight. Temperatures will feel cooler than of late, peaking at 17°C. Fans should come prepared for wet and windy conditions, and allow extra time for journeys to Anfield.

Brighton vs Tottenham (3pm)
The south coast starts the day dry, with low cloud gradually lifting to reveal some warm, bright spells, particularly towards the east. However, the afternoon brings a change, as cloud thickens and scattered heavy showers become possible. Winds will be light and variable at first, but are expected to increase later in the day. The maximum temperature will reach a pleasant 22°C, but spectators should be ready for a sudden downpour or two.

Burnley vs Nottingham Forest (3pm)
Conditions in the northwest mirror those in Liverpool, with persistent and heavy rain likely to cause localised surface water flooding and travel issues. Winds will pick up, and there’s a chance of coastal gales overnight. It will feel noticeably cooler, with highs of 17°C. Supporters are advised to dress for the rain and to check for any travel updates before setting out.

West Ham vs Crystal Palace (3pm)
London sees a dry start, with low cloud lifting to provide some warm, bright intervals, especially towards the east. The afternoon, however, brings cloudier skies and the risk of scattered heavy showers. Winds will be light and variable initially, but will strengthen as the day goes on. The mercury will climb to 22°C, so it will feel warm between showers, but an umbrella or waterproof jacket is recommended.

Wolves vs Leeds (3pm)
The Midlands will experience increasingly wet and windy weather from the southwest, as a band of rain pushes northeastwards. This rain will be heavy at times, but there may be some brief bright or sunny intervals. It will feel cooler than in recent days, with a maximum temperature of 20°C. Players and fans alike should expect challenging conditions, particularly as the match progresses.

Man United vs Chelsea (5:30pm)
Old Trafford is set for a wet and windy evening, with persistent and heavy rain likely to cause localised flooding and travel disruption. Winds will strengthen, and there’s a risk of coastal gales overnight. Temperatures will peak at 17°C, making for a cool and potentially uncomfortable evening for those in the stands.

Fulham vs Brentford (8pm)
The late kick-off in London begins with a dry morning and low cloud, which will lift to reveal some warm, bright spells. However, as with other fixtures, the afternoon and evening will see cloudier skies and the possibility of scattered heavy showers. Winds will be light and variable at first, increasing later. The maximum temperature will be 22°C, so it will feel warm between showers, but fans should be prepared for a change in conditions as the evening progresses.

Sunday’s Premier League action: Rain dominates, with some brighter spells

Sunday’s fixtures continue the theme of unsettled weather, with rain and wind affecting much of the country.

Bournemouth vs Newcastle (2pm)
The south coast will be cloudy as a band of rain and drizzle spreads eastwards, bringing heavy downpours at times. Conditions will turn showery later, with patchy cloud and increasing winds. The maximum temperature will be 19°C. Travelling supporters should be aware of the potential for wet weather and plan accordingly.

Sunderland vs Aston Villa (2pm)
The northeast faces a wet day, with persistent outbreaks of rain, heavy at times. Winds will be light at first, but a strengthening northerly breeze will develop later, making it feel even cooler. The maximum temperature will be just 15°C, so warm and waterproof clothing is a must for those attending the match.

Arsenal vs Man City (4:30pm)
The capital enjoys a dry morning, with low cloud lifting to give some warm, bright spells, particularly towards the east. However, the afternoon brings cloudier skies and the risk of scattered heavy showers. Winds will be light and variable at first, increasing later. The maximum temperature will reach 22°C, so it will feel warm between showers, but fans should be prepared for a sudden change in conditions.

Women’s Rugby World Cup: France vs England faces challenging conditions

France vs England (Saturday, 3:30pm)
The Women’s Rugby World Cup fixture between France and England is set to be played under cloudy skies, as a band of rain and drizzle continues to spread eastwards. Heavy downpours are likely at times, turning showery later with patchy cloud. Winds will increase as the match progresses, and the maximum temperature will be 19°C. Players and fans should expect slippery conditions underfoot and the potential for handling errors due to the wet ball.

Weather impacts: What this means for players, fans, and organisers

This weekend’s weather is likely to have a significant impact on sporting events across the UK. Persistent and heavy rain could lead to localised flooding and travel disruption, particularly in the northwest and northeast. Winds will strengthen, especially overnight and into Sunday, increasing the risk of coastal gales and making conditions challenging for both players and spectators.

For those attending matches, it’s essential to check the latest travel updates and allow extra time for journeys. Waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended, as is keeping an eye on the forecast for any last-minute changes.