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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Public Journal weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
A weather balloon is a high‑altitude balloon that carries a radiosonde package to measure temperature, humidity, pressure and wind speed as it climbs through the atmosphere, typically reaching over 30 km before bursting and returning to Earth by parachute.
How does a weather balloon work?
Weather balloons are filled with helium or hydrogen and released twice daily from hundreds of sites worldwide, including the UK. As the balloon rises, the attached radiosonde transmits data back to ground stations. When the balloon expands beyond its elastic limit it bursts, and the instrument package descends under a small parachute. The live forecast above relies on these upper‑air observations to improve accuracy for your local area.
What are weather balloons used for?
They provide critical data for weather prediction, climate research, and aviation safety. Meteorologists use balloon observations to build atmospheric profiles that drive forecast models. In the UK, the Met Office operates regular releases from sites such as Camborne and Lerwick. Enthusiasts also launch smaller balloons for STEM projects; a basic weather balloon kit can be bought online (look for a weather balloon for sale from specialist suppliers). Typical weather balloon size ranges from 100 g to 2000 g, with weather balloon price from £20 to £200 depending on payload and altitude capability. The main weather balloon purpose remains scientific measurement, not recreation.
How high can a weather balloon go?
Most weather balloons reach 30‑40 km before the reduced atmospheric pressure causes them to burst. Specialist balloons with lighter payloads have exceeded 50 km, but standard launches are designed to profile the troposphere and lower stratosphere.
Can I buy a weather balloon in the UK?
Yes – weather balloon uk suppliers offer kits ranging from small hobby models to professional radiosondes. You can find weather balloon amazon listings for starter packs, though certified flight equipment is sold through meteorological retailers. Always check Civil Aviation Authority rules before release.
How much does a weather balloon cost?
A basic latex balloon costs £20‑£40, while a complete weather balloon kit with tracking and payload adds £100‑£300. Professional radiosonde packs used by national weather services run to several hundred pounds. The weather balloon price varies with lift capacity and durability.
Sources
For more detail on how these observations influence your daily forecast, visit our UK weather hub or check the 10‑day forecast page.