Information from The Met Office.

Today 17 December :

Shetland starting dry but occasional rain over Orkney will spread up to Shetland, allowing Orkney to brighten up. Heavier rain will reach all areas later but clearing in the afternoon, remaining cloudy. Southerly gales easing in the afternoon. Maximum temperature 9 °C.

Tonight:

Cloud beginning to disperse with some clear spells by late evening, winds also dying down. A few showers developing in the early hours and blustery again by dawn. Minimum temperature 5 °C.

Thursday 18 December :

Breezy with showers through the morning, some bright spells, a drier afternoon and feeling milder in southerly winds. Maximum temperature 10 °C.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Windy with showers on Friday, chance of some drier conditions through the weekend, still breezy at times but relatively mild for December.

Updated: 04:00 (UTC) on Wed 17 Dec 2025