The UK will be dominated by high pressure on Friday. This brings with it mainly settled conditions which is good news. However, there is a sting in the tail in that it contains large amounts of cloud. Forecasts show a better chance of sunshine in Southern England and Wales on eclipse day. Unfortunately further North, cloud cover in Northern England, Ireland and Scotland is highly likely. Although cloud and showers are predicted in the total eclipse zone, there could be occasional breaks in cloud between the showers.

The weather prospects for the total solar eclipse on 20th March 2015 are not favourable compared to eclipses in other parts of the world. The weather can change dramatically on the islands in both the Northern and Norwegian seas. Both location and time of year go against good viewing on the ground. Using the Faroe Islands as an example, in March cloud cover is frequent. This cloud cover also has a higher risk of light to moderate rain throughout the month.

That being said, there are ways to avoid disappointment. The best option for an almost gauranteed view of totality is to view the eclipse by air in an aircraft that can fly above the cloudbase. Being on board ship has its advantages with the ability to ‘chase the sun’ avoiding those troublesome clouds.

In the days leading up to 20th March 2015, be sure to revisit this page for extensive weather forecasts for the event.