Notting Hill Carnival faces rain and thunder forecast
Forecasters predict unsettled weather with showers and possible thunderstorms across the bank holiday weekend.
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The annual Notting Hill Carnival, a major event in West London drawing approximately two million people, is set to face unsettled weather conditions over the August bank holiday weekend. Forecasters have issued warnings of rain and thunder, potentially impacting the festivities planned from Saturday, August 29 to Monday, August 31, 2026.
Weekend Weather Outlook
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BBC Weather experts anticipate a significant chance of rain throughout the weekend. Sunday, August 30, which includes the family and children's day and parade, is predicted to be wet for most of the day. The outlook for Bank Holiday Monday, August 31, the main adult parade day, is also concerning, with overnight rain expected to be followed by regular showers from approximately 2pm until 9pm. Thunder is forecast to begin around 7pm on Monday.
Jim Dale, from the British Weather Services, has also predicted a likelihood of showers during the carnival period. While he forecasts temperatures could reach up to 24°C, describing the conditions as 'pleasant' rather than hot, he cautioned that attendees should 'look over our shoulders' for rain. Mr. Dale attributes the unsettled weather to an area of low pressure moving in from the west.
Met Office Forecast
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The Met Office's long-range forecast for London aligns with these predictions, indicating a move towards more unsettled and changeable weather. Their outlook suggests that showers or longer periods of rain are likely to spread across many parts of the UK, with the possibility of heavy bursts and thunderstorms at times during the period of August 30-31, 2026.
While weather forecasts are based on probabilities and are subject to change, the consistent warnings from multiple meteorological services suggest that attendees should prepare for the possibility of rain and thunder during the Notting Hill Carnival weekend.
Questions this report answers
+What is the weather forecast for Notting Hill Carnival 2026?
Forecasters predict unsettled weather for the Notting Hill Carnival weekend, August 29-31, 2026. There is a high likelihood of rain and thunder, particularly on Sunday, August 30, and Monday, August 31.
+What temperatures are expected during the carnival?
Temperatures are forecast to reach up to 24°C, which is described as pleasant. However, this is expected to be accompanied by a likelihood of showers and potential thunderstorms.
+Which days are most likely to be affected by rain?
Sunday, August 30, is predicted to be wet for most of the day. On Monday, August 31, showers are expected from approximately 2pm through to 9pm, with thunder forecast from 7pm.
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