Should I open the windows in London right now?
Live decision for London. Updated every 30 minutes.
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Live decision for London. Updated every 30 minutes.
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Today's windows
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London's maritime climate means persistent humidity — the city averages 70–80% relative humidity year-round and sees rain on about 150 days per year. This narrows the window for ideal ventilation compared to continental European cities. However, London's mild summers (July highs average 23°C) mean nights rarely stay above 16°C, creating excellent overnight ventilation opportunities that don't exist in hotter cities.
Urban air quality has improved dramatically since the ULEZ expansion. Central London's AQI is typically 30–50 on weekdays, with spikes near busy roads. Air quality is consistently best on weekend mornings before traffic builds — often coinciding with the coolest outdoor temperatures of the week.
Winter in London calls for caution: the combination of high outdoor humidity (85–95%) and cold air can push dew point indoors, risking condensation on cold walls. Short 10-minute ventilation bursts are safer than extended window opening through December and January.
In London, the best ventilation times are typically early morning (5–8 AM) and late evening (after sunset) when outdoor temperatures drop below indoor levels.
Yes, in most weather conditions. Open windows can drop indoor temperature by 2–5°C in 30 minutes if outdoor air is cooler. Check the live recommendation above for tonight.
Above 80% humidity, opening windows can make indoor air feel sticky. Combine with dehumidifier or wait for drier hours.