This winter in the UK has been marked by significant rainfall and mixed weather patterns, as meteorological conditions show a notable increase in precipitation. From December to February, the UK experienced several low-pressure systems that contributed to widespread rain, while sunshine was scarce.
Exploring Winter Statistics: How Much Rain Has Fallen?
As of February 25, provisional statistics from the Met Office indicated that rainfall levels were 9% above the long-term average for the winter season. Although wetter than typical, these figures do not suggest record-breaking rainfall.
Regional Rainfall Variations
- Rainfall totals in southern England were recorded at 336.1mm, making it the seventh wettest winter since 1836.
- In Scotland, eastern areas experienced 19% above average rainfall, while northern regions reported 34% below average.
- Some counties, including Dorset and Cornwall, noted their second wettest winters, while others like the Isle of Wight reported their third wettest.
These discrepancies highlight a pronounced north/south divide across England. Rainfall totals were recorded as 13% above average in the south compared to 50% in the north.
Storms and Temperature Trends
This winter saw a series of impactful storms, including Storm Bram, Goretti, Ingrid, and Chandra, each inflicting severe weather conditions on the already saturated land. The mean temperature across the UK reached 5.57°C by February 25, indicating warmer conditions compared to the seasonal average.
February notably featured above-average temperatures, peaking over 18°C, contrasting sharply with the much cooler temperatures in January. However, the availability of sunshine remained low, with the UK receiving only 80% of its typical seasonal sunshine hours. Scotland faced even fewer sunny hours, recording just 71% of its average and ranking as one of its dullest winters since 1910.
Implications of Climate Change
The weather patterns observed this winter may also reflect broader climate change trends. Warmer atmospheric conditions can hold significantly more moisture, leading to heavier and more intense rainfall. This correlation suggests that winters in the UK are likely to feature more frequent and intense rainfall events in the future.
As meteorological winter nears its end, the impact of storms and contrasting regional climates paints a complex picture of this season’s weather. With several days remaining and additional rain forecasted, final statistics may shift further, highlighting the variability in winter weather across the UK.
The Met Office will release comprehensive statistics for both February and winter on March 2, 2026, offering a clearer picture of this unusually wet season.
