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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 13 June 2026 by the Insight Britain weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Belfast’s weather is typical of Northern Ireland: mild but changeable, with rain possible at any time of year. The live forecast above shows the coming days, and this guide explains what to expect season by season, how to prepare, and answers common questions about short-term and long-range outlooks.
What does the live forecast for Belfast show?
The live conditions above give you an at-a-glance view of temperature, wind speed, and precipitation for Belfast. Because the city sits on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland, the forecast often reflects a maritime influence — cloud can roll in from the Irish Sea quickly, and a bright morning can turn drizzly by lunchtime. Use the live chart to check the hour-by-hour breakdown, especially if you are planning outdoor time in areas such as the Titanic Quarter or the city centre.
What is Belfast’s climate like through the year?
Belfast has a temperate oceanic climate (Köppen: Cfb), meaning cool summers and mild winters with no extreme heat or cold. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly, though autumn and winter are slightly wetter. The city is also one of the sunnier parts of Northern Ireland, averaging around 1,200–1,400 hours of sunshine a year.
Spring (March to May)
Daytime highs range from 9°C in March to about 15°C in May. Frost becomes less common after mid-April. Showers are frequent, but there are also longer spells of dry, bright weather, especially in May. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
Summer (June to August)
Average highs reach 17–19°C, occasionally touching 22–25°C in a warm spell. Rainfall remains moderate, with July often the driest month in terms of total rainfall. The long daylight hours (sunset after 9pm in June) make it a good time for visiting the Antrim Coast or the city’s parks.
Autumn (September to November)
Temperatures fall from around 16°C in September to 9°C in November. This is the season when Atlantic low-pressure systems arrive most frequently, bringing stronger winds and more persistent rain. October and November are typically the wettest months, though dry intervals are still common.
Winter (December to February)
Daytime highs hover between 6°C and 8°C; overnight frosts happen on 20–30 nights per winter, but heavy snow is rare. Sleet or occasional snow showers can cause brief disruption. The Met Office weather Belfast forecasts during winter are worth checking, especially if you plan to travel into the surrounding countryside.
Are there any local microclimate quirks in Belfast?
Belfast lies at the head of Belfast Lough, a deep glacial inlet. The lough can create a slight warming effect in winter, keeping temperatures a degree or two higher than inland areas such as Lisburn or Ballymena. In summer, a sea breeze from the lough can moderate afternoon heat, making the city centre feel fresher than suburbs further from the water. The AccuWeather Belfast forecast often reflects this coastal influence in its wind and feels-like temperature predictions.
What is the best time of year to visit Belfast?
For the most reliable dry and warm weather, the period from mid-May to mid-September is best. June and July offer the longest days and the highest chance of fine conditions. If you don’t mind occasional rain and want smaller crowds, May or September can be ideal — both months often see pleasant spells. For city breaks centred on museums, pubs, and shopping, winter is perfectly fine; just pack a sturdy umbrella and a warm coat.
What should you pack for a trip to Belfast?
A waterproof jacket is essential every month. In summer, add a light jumper for cooler evenings. In autumn and winter, bring a warm coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof footwear. Even in spring, a scarf can be useful. Belfast’s rain can arrive without warning, so having a small umbrella handy is a good idea.
What is the weather in Belfast tomorrow?
The live forecast above gives the most accurate view for tomorrow — check the hour-by-hour panel for temperature, wind, and rain timing. In general, expect a mixture of cloud and some rain at any time of year, with temperatures typical of the season described above.
Where can I find a 10-day forecast for Belfast?
You can view our 10-day forecast for Belfast, which is updated several times a day. Many readers also search for bbc weather belfast 10 days or bbc weather in belfast 10 days — the live widget above draws on similar data, showing both daily summaries and detailed hourly breakdowns.
Does it rain a lot in Belfast?
Belfast receives around 950 mm of rainfall per year, which is less than many other parts of the UK such as Glasgow or Manchester. However, rain falls on about 150–170 days annually, often as light drizzle rather than heavy downpours. The city’s reputation for rain is slightly exaggerated — it is no wetter than many other western UK cities.
What about longer-range forecasts, like 14 or 21 days?
Forecasts beyond 7–10 days have lower reliability. For a general idea of trends, you can check the belfast weather 15 days outlook or 21 day weather belfast options available on some services, but treat them as rough guidance. The UK weather warnings page is a better source for any significant weather risks in the medium term.
How does Belfast compare to other UK cities?
Like most of the UK, Belfast experiences changeable maritime weather. It tends to be milder than Glasgow in winter and slightly less rainy than Liverpool. For travellers moving between cities, our UK weather hub can help you compare conditions across the country.