The Met Office has issued a series of yellow weather warnings for the coming days, forecasting a spell of disruptive weather featuring strong winds of up to 65mph, heavy rain, and potential snow for parts of the UK.
Widespread Disruption Expected from Tuesday
A significant weather system is set to sweep across the country, with the most severe conditions initially targeting the southwest. A 12-hour yellow warning for wind and rain will be active from 4am on Tuesday 20th January 2026 for southwest Britain and Wales.
Met Office chief forecaster Paul Gundersen stated that inland gusts could reach 45 to 55mph, with exposed coastal and hilly areas seeing speeds of 60 to 65mph. He linked the incoming system to the lingering impacts of Storm Goretti, noting that areas like Cornwall remain particularly vulnerable to further disruption.
Heavy Rain and Flooding Risk Moves North
The focus will then shift northwards from Wednesday. A more prolonged 48-hour yellow warning for rain comes into force at midday on Wednesday for Central Scotland, Tayside & Fife, Grampian, and the Highlands & Eilean Siar.
The forecaster predicts persistent and heavy downpours, with 30 to 60mm of rainfall widely expected and a potential for 80 to 120mm over high ground. This raises the risk of flooding, power cuts, and travel delays.
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Dan Holley explained: "Given the nature of the ground following recent rain and snow thaw, this may lead to some flooding in places." He added that strong onshore winds and large waves will compound the hazards in coastal regions.
Wintry Mix and Colder Temperatures Ahead
As the week progresses, the rain is expected to turn increasingly to snow on high ground through Thursday and Friday, adding complexity to the flood risk scenario. The broader outlook indicates a battle between weather systems, with wet conditions from the west competing with colder, drier air from the east, signalling a drop in temperatures next week.
The Met Office's five-day forecast summarises a changeable and often cloudy period with outbreaks of rain, strengthening winds in the north, and a turn to colder conditions later in the week.
