Home › Weather › Towns › Ballymena
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 ·
The live forecast above shows the current conditions and the outlook for Ballymena over the coming hours and days. This guide explains how to interpret that data for your specific location and what to expect from the local climate throughout the year.
How should you read the live forecast for Ballymena?
The live forecast above updates automatically from local weather stations. The main panel shows the temperature, wind speed and direction, humidity, and precipitation probability for the current hour. Scroll horizontally to see the hourly breakdown for the next 24 hours. The 7-day overview below that gives you the daily high and low, along with a symbol showing the dominant weather type for each day. For driving conditions across the region, also check the UK weather hub for regional updates.
What is Ballymena’s typical climate across the seasons?
Ballymena experiences a temperate maritime climate, strongly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and its position in the Braid Valley. Winters are cool and wet, with daytime highs rarely falling below 2–3°C in January, though frost is common in the valley bottom. Snowfall is infrequent and usually light. Spring brings a gradual warming from March to May, with increasing sunshine but still frequent showers. Summer is the warmest season, with July and August highs typically reaching 17–19°C, occasionally climbing above 22°C during settled periods. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with autumn often the wettest season due to Atlantic depressions. Wind is a constant feature, though the surrounding hills provide some shelter compared to coastal areas.
How do local geography and urban effects influence the weather?
Ballymena lies in a low-lying valley surrounded by the Antrim Plateau to the east and the Sperrin Mountains to the west. This valley traps cold air on clear winter nights, leading to sharper frosts than in nearby coastal towns. The urban centre creates a slight heat island effect, making it a degree or two warmer than outlying rural areas overnight. The proximity of the coast (Larne is about 15 miles east) means that easterly winds can bring cooler, cloudier conditions in spring and summer.
What is the best time to visit Ballymena and what should you pack?
The best time for outdoor activities is late May through early September, when days are longest and rainfall is slightly less frequent. Pack layers: a waterproof jacket is essential in any season. A lightweight fleece and a warm mid-layer are useful even in summer for cooler evenings. In winter, add a thick coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy waterproof footwear.
Which nearby areas do readers also check?
If you are planning to travel in the region, you may also want to look at forecasts for Antrim, Ballymoney, Glengormley, Larne, Newtownabbey, and Carrickfergus.
What will the weather be in Ballymena tomorrow?
The live forecast above shows tomorrow’s hourly breakdown and the daily symbol. Look for the date marker and note the precipitation percentage and wind speed. Ballymena’s valley location means overnight fog can linger into the morning in settled conditions.
What is the 10 to 14 day outlook for Ballymena?
Extended forecasts become less reliable day by day. The live forecast above provides a 7-day view. For a broader sense of pressure patterns, check the 10-day forecast on our UK hub, which gives general trend information for Northern Ireland.
Does it rain a lot in Ballymena?
Ballymena receives around 1,000 mm of rain per year, which is typical for inland Northern Ireland but less than the western fells of the Sperrins. Rain is frequent but often light to moderate. The wettest months are usually October through January.
Should I check for weather warnings in Ballymena?
Yes. Strong winds and heavy rain can affect the valley, especially in autumn and winter. The UK weather warnings page provides Met Office alerts for Northern Ireland. Frost and ice warnings are common from November to March.