Steering Atlantic systems
The jet stream helps steer areas of low pressure across the Atlantic. Its path can therefore influence where weather systems travel, but it does not determine surface weather by itself.
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Where is the Jet Stream?
North Atlantic Jet Stream
Follow the strongest winds high above the North Atlantic and see how their position and intensity are forecast to change around the UK over the next seven days. Switch between animated wind particles and a traditional colour-coded meteorological band.
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Weather context
How the jet stream can influence UK weather
North, south or split
A more southerly path can favour unsettled conditions across parts of the UK, while a more northerly path can sometimes allow more settled conditions. Split branches make that relationship more complex.
One part of the forecast
Pressure patterns, moisture, temperature and local effects all matter. A jet stream south of the UK does not automatically mean that a particular day or place will be wet.
Data and method
The tracker uses the U and V wind components from the ECMWF deterministic IFS forecast at the 250 hPa pressure level. UK Data Hub calculates wind speed, crops the grid to the North Atlantic and highlights connected areas of winds above the published threshold. Small isolated areas are removed; multiple substantial branches are retained.