Happy Morning!
A grey start to the working week with temperatures around 8°C overnight and a high of 14°C — umbrella weather by afternoon.
Current conditions across the capital
Londoners stepping out on this Monday morning are greeted by a blanket of thick cloud and notably cool air — a reminder that May in Britain rarely sticks to a script. The mercury is sitting at a brisk 8°C, which will feel closer to 5–6°C in any easterly breeze. Skies are overcast from the Thames Estuary through to Heathrow, with no immediate sign of the cloud breaking.
The daytime high is expected to reach around 14°C — still well below the seasonal average of 17°C for mid-May. It's the kind of day that separates Londoners who packed their spring coat from those who didn't.
Will it rain today?
The short answer: possibly, and probably by afternoon. The probability of rainfall across Greater London today stands at 45% — enough to make carrying an umbrella a wise precaution rather than an overcautious one. Any showers are likely to be light to moderate, with the heaviest risk coming during the afternoon commute window between 14:00 and 18:00.
If you have outdoor plans — lunch in a park, an afternoon stroll along the South Bank, or a trip to one of London's markets — it is strongly advisable to layer up and keep a compact umbrella to hand.
Weather note: A 45% rain probability is significant enough to plan around. If you're commuting or spending time outdoors this afternoon, check your local radar before heading out.
Five-day London forecast
Conditions gradually brighten through the week, with temperatures climbing toward a more pleasant 22°C by Thursday.
Precautions before heading outside today
Cool temperatures, cloud cover, and a meaningful chance of showers mean a little preparation goes a long way. Here is what to keep in mind:
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Carry an umbrella or waterproof jacketA 45% rain probability is high enough to warrant protection. A compact folding umbrella or a lightweight packable rain jacket will keep you comfortable if showers arrive during the afternoon or commute home.
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Dress in warm layersAt 8°C this morning and only 14°C at best, this is firmly coat weather. A light jumper under a mid-weight jacket strikes the right balance — warm enough now, easy to adjust if it warms slightly by midday.
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Wear waterproof or closed-toe footwearWet pavements and potential puddles make open sandals or canvas trainers a poor choice. Opt for leather shoes or water-resistant boots to keep your feet dry through the day.
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Outdoor exercise: go in the morningIf you are planning a run, a cycle, or any outdoor workout, the morning window (before 11:00) offers the best chance of staying dry. Afternoon showers are the bigger risk today.
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Drivers: allow extra timeWet roads reduce visibility and increase stopping distances. Expect heavier-than-usual traffic during the evening commute if rain arrives. Leave a larger gap to the vehicle ahead and check your windscreen wipers are working well.
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Cold-sensitive individuals: take extra care8°C with wind chill can feel deceptively harsh. Those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, or young children should minimise prolonged exposure and ensure they are properly bundled up before going outside.
Looking ahead: a brighter week on the horizon
The outlook brightens considerably from Wednesday onwards. Cloud and rain chances drop to 20% mid-week, with temperatures nudging up to 19°C by Wednesday and a more summery 22°C arriving on Thursday. If you can hold out for a couple of days, there is real warmth on the way — classic London weather making you earn the sunshine.
For now, embrace the grey, pack that umbrella, and enjoy a hot cup of tea — Monday in London, as it was always meant to be.
