Jet Stream Forecast

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By Olivia Hartley, City & Transport DeskReviewed by Rebecca HainesForecast data: Open-Meteo & national met services

Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the DailyCity weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.

The jet stream is forecast to remain south of the UK for the next 7–10 days, drawing in a succession of Atlantic low‑pressure systems that bring rain and blustery winds to southern and western Britain, while northern areas stay drier but cool.

How will the jet stream affect UK weather this week?

The core of the jet stream is currently tracking across France and the Bay of Biscay, directing the wettest weather toward the South West, South East and Wales. A 7 day jet stream forecast map shows this pattern holding through mid‑week, with heavy bursts of rain possible for Cornwall and Devon. By Thursday the jet shifts slightly north, allowing a weaker ridge of high pressure to bring a brief drier spell to central England. Scotland and Northern Ireland, sitting north of the jet, will see mostly cloudy skies but little rain.

What does the longer‑range jet stream forecast show?

For the 30 day jet stream forecast, computer models suggest the polar front will remain amplified, keeping low pressure close to the UK into late April. A 10 day jet stream forecast uk outlook indicates the jet may pulse stronger around April 20–23, increasing the risk of gales along the English Channel. Beyond that, a 14‑day jet stream forecast hints at a split flow – one branch over Scandinavia and another over southern Europe – which typically brings a mixed, changeable pattern for Britain without any prolonged settled spell.

Current jet stream speedAround 160 mph at 250 hPa over the Bay of Biscay

Typical position for AprilSouth of the UK (45–50°N) – slightly further south than average

Primary UK impact this weekWet in the south and west; drier but cool in the north

Key risk periodApril 20–23: potential for gales on Channel coasts

What exactly is the jet stream?

A fast-moving ribbon of air at around 30,000–40,000 ft that steers weather systems. Its position and strength determine whether the UK gets mild, wet Atlantic air or colder, drier conditions from the north.

Will the jet stream bring stormy weather soon?

Not immediately, but the 7 day jet stream forecast uk shows a deepening low near Biscay on Friday which could produce strong gusts in Cornwall. Longer‑range signals for late April are worth watching.

How reliable is a 30 day jet stream forecast?

Beyond 10–14 days, confidence drops sharply. The 30 day outlook from the Met Office gives a broad trend – useful for planning, but not day‑to‑day detail. Focus on the 7‑day forecast for actionable advice.