Record-Breaking Rainfall in the UK: January 2026 Overview

January 2026 marked an exceptionally wet month for the UK, with Northern Ireland experiencing its wettest January in 149 years, recording 195.6 mm of rainfall—70% more than its average. Southern England also faced significant rainfall, with totals reaching 136.8 mm, ranking it as the sixth wettest January on record. The persistent rain was attributed to a series of Atlantic low-pressure systems, including Storms Goretti, Ingrid, and Chandra, which brought repeated bouts of heavy rain and strong winds across the region.

Northern Ireland sees wettest January in 149 years as 2026 gets off to a wet and windy startSnow and rain expected to hit UK as Met Office issues weather warningsJanuary weather among the UK's wettest on record, experts sayMore rain to hit UK this week as Met Office issues fresh weather warningsRain every day in south west of England and South Wales in 2026 so farUK weather: Areas of UK hit by record January rainfallMet Office issues urgent yellow rain warning to 23 UK areasUK suffers 36 continuous days of rain as miserable weather continues with more Met Office warnings

Storm Chandra, which struck on January 26, was particularly notable for its record-breaking rainfall. Katesbridge in County Down recorded an unprecedented 100.8 mm in a single day, far exceeding previous records. Other areas, such as Dunkeswell Aerodrome in Devon and Hurn in Dorset, also reported significant rainfall, contributing to widespread flooding and travel disruptions. The Met Office indicated that the ground had become saturated due to the continuous rainfall, leading to heightened risks of flooding even from moderate rain.

Further rainfall could exacerbate flooding in south-west England – Met Office

As February begins, the Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather warnings for rain across various regions, including southwest England, Wales, and parts of Scotland. These warnings are in effect due to the forecast of additional heavy rain, with expected accumulations of 10 to 20 mm, and localized areas potentially receiving over 30 mm. The warnings highlight concerns for surface water flooding, travel disruptions, and possible power supply interruptions.

Met Office issues urgent yellow rain warning to 23 UK areas

The ongoing wet weather has raised concerns about the potential for further flooding, particularly in areas already affected by previous storms. The Environment Agency has reported 66 flood warnings and 149 flood alerts across the UK, indicating that flooding is expected or possible in many regions. The Met Office has noted that the current weather patterns are likely to continue, with further rain and snow expected in the coming days, particularly in northern England and Scotland.

Expect delays on your commute as flooding and heavy rain hit England, Wales and ScotlandMore rain to hit UK this week as Met Office issues fresh weather warningsLiverpool could be hit by 16-hours of rain todayRain every day in south west of England and South Wales in 2026 so farYellow weather warning for parts of England already hit by severe rainUK suffers 36 continuous days of rain as miserable weather continues with more Met Office warningsMet Office issues urgent yellow rain warning to 23 UK areasFlood warnings issued: Met Office says UK set for more heavy rainHeavy rain could lead to more flooding across Devon and CornwallFurther rainfall could exacerbate flooding in south-west England – Met Office

Critics have expressed concerns regarding the preparedness of local authorities to handle the flooding crisis, especially in regions like Somerset, where a major incident was declared due to significant flooding affecting numerous properties. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and take precautions against potential flooding, particularly as more rain is forecasted.

Yellow weather warning for parts of England already hit by severe rain

Met Office science manager Dr. Amy Doherty stated, “January has been exceptionally wet because we’ve seen a very persistent Atlantic weather pattern… This succession of Atlantic systems is the main reason rainfall totals this month are well above average for many areas.” The Met Office continues to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and warnings as necessary.

More rain to hit UK this week as Met Office issues fresh weather warnings

The UK is currently facing a challenging weather situation, with record rainfall leading to significant flooding risks. As the country braces for more wet weather, authorities and residents alike are urged to remain alert and prepared for potential disruptions in the coming days.

UK suffers 36 continuous days of rain as miserable weather continues with more Met Office warnings