UK Weather Forecast: Summer Sunshine and Breezy Conditions – 18 August 2025

The UK continues to enjoy a largely fine summer’s day with plenty of sunshine across many areas. However, as is often the case, there are a few regional variations to note. High pressure remains the dominant feature, keeping conditions settled for most. Still, some areas are experiencing cloud cover, showers, and cooler breezes.

UK Weather Forecast: Summer Sunshine and Breezy Conditions – 18 August 2025

High Pressure Brings Settled Weather

High pressure is currently positioned to the north of the UK, keeping conditions stable and generally dry. At the same time, low pressure to the southwest is pushing a few showers into parts of southwest England. For many regions, it’s a bright and warm afternoon with temperatures close to seasonal averages.

  • Average highs: Low 20s °C
  • Warm spots: Western Scotland
  • Cooler regions: North Sea coasts of northern England and eastern Scotland, where temperatures may struggle above 16–17°C

Coastal Cloud and Hazy Skies

While inland areas are enjoying sunny spells, a stubborn layer of cloud lingers along some North Sea coasts. This cloud is gradually breaking up inland, but coastal regions remain cooler and more overcast.

Additionally, hazy skies are being reported in parts of the southwest due to smoke drifting northwards from Portuguese wildfires. This may lead to enhanced and colourful sunsets this evening.

Evening and Overnight Outlook

As the evening progresses, a band of cloud from the North Sea is expected to drift further south, moving inland across:

  • Northeast England
  • Central and eastern Scotland
  • Parts of East Anglia

Southwest England may also see a few showers, with the potential for a rumble of thunder or lightning. Overnight, most areas will remain mild, with temperatures staying in the mid-teens °C. Rural Scotland could dip into single figures.

Tuesday’s Weather Highlights

Looking ahead to Tuesday, a northerly breeze will bring cooler and cloudier conditions across northern and eastern areas of the UK.

  • Scotland & Northern England: Persistent cloud with the chance of drizzle
  • Southwest England & Wales: Scattered showers, some heavy, possibly extending to Dorset and Somerset
  • South Coast & West Wales: Bright and sunny, with temperatures reaching 24–25°C

In contrast, the North Sea coasts will feel fresher, with temperatures below average for mid-August.

Midweek and Beyond

High pressure will remain in control through much of the week, maintaining settled conditions. As the high shifts slightly southward later in the week, the easterly breeze is expected to ease, allowing for more widespread sunshine and warmer conditions across the UK.

Summary

  • Today: Fine and sunny for most, with cloud and cooler conditions along the North Sea coasts.
  • Tonight: Mild with cloud drifting inland; chance of showers in the southwest.
  • Tuesday: Sunny in the west and south; cloudier and cooler in the east and north.
  • Rest of the week: High pressure dominates, ensuring largely settled and pleasant summer weather.