Freeview’s TV signal faces a struggle this weekend as high pressure hovers over the UK.

10:20, 25 Apr 2026Updated 07:14, 26 Apr 2026

Freeview (Image: FREEVIEW)

While much of the UK is set to enjoy wonderfully warm weather this weekend, the high-pressure system bringing the sunshine could also cause problems for Freeview users.

It’s a well-known fact that TV signals are not a fan of current conditions and that’s bad news for anyone wanting to tune into content over the next few days. As the BBC has confirmed, high pressure can cause two main issues for TV signals. It can weaken reception and allow signals to interfere with your local service.

Explaining more, the BBC said: “High pressure isn’t something that is easy to detect. It’s usually associated with hot weather but can happen at any time of the year.

“It can cause two potential problems. The first is that you receive a weaker signal, as the signal from your local transmitter is lifted higher into the sky. The second is that the signal from a distant transmitter interferes with your reception. “

These warm conditions and high pressure are expected to continue until Monday, prompting Freeview to issue important guidance for its millions of viewers.

Freeview said: “Viewers across parts of the UK could experience disruption to TV reception from Friday 24 April to Sunday 26 April 2026 due to high pressure affecting the signals Freeview uses.

“You are advised not to retune your TV during this time. Reception should return once the high pressure passes.”

READ MORE: All homes using Freeview urged to follow simple advice or miss out on channel upgrade

This type of weather-related disruption can happen several times a year, but there are ways to keep watching your favourite shows.

If you have a newer smart TV with internet access, you can switch to Freeview Play and watch live or on-demand programmes online instead of through your aerial.

Freeview said internet-connected TVs with channel apps can still access services such as BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 and 5.

You can also watch through the Freeview mobile app, which is available to download for free.

Another option is Freely, the streaming platform backed by the same group behind Freeview and Freesat. Instead of using an aerial, Freely delivers channels through broadband, meaning it is not affected by weather conditions.

Freely offers more than 50 live and on-demand channels, along with features including pausing live TV, personalised recommendations, and an interactive guide showing what’s on now and next.