Londoners planning to ring in 2026 with outdoor celebrations may need to rethink their outfits and locations, as the latest BBC long-range weather forecast predicts a damp end to the year.
A Wet Welcome to the New Year
According to meteorologists at the BBC, both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in the capital are expected to be rainy. This gloomy prediction could put a literal damper on party plans across the city and might make any January 1st hangovers feel even more challenging. The forecast, issued by Senior Reporter Rafi Mauro-Benady, provides a detailed look ahead to the festive period and beyond.
The Festive Forecast in Detail
While the New Year looks wet, the immediate run-up to Christmas offers some brighter intervals. The forecast indicates that the weather in London will remain mainly dry until the year's end, with the sun making occasional appearances. Specifically, Christmas Day itself is not expected to bring any magical snowfall, but it should be free from rain, allowing for smiles with loved ones under periods of sunshine.
The detailed London forecast from the BBC is as follows:
- Saturday, December 20: High 10°C, Low 7°C. Sunny intervals and a gentle breeze.
- Sunday, December 21: High 11°C, Low 8°C. Light rain and light winds.
- Monday, December 22: High 11°C, Low 6°C. Light cloud and light winds.
- Tuesday, December 23: High 9°C, Low 6°C. Light cloud and light winds.
- Wednesday, December 24: High 7°C, Low 2°C. Drizzle and a moderate breeze.
- Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day): High 6°C, Low 1°C. Sunny intervals and a moderate breeze.
- Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day): High 5°C, Low 3°C. Sunny intervals and a gentle breeze.
- Saturday, December 27: High 6°C, Low 3°C. Thick cloud and a gentle breeze.
- Sunday, December 28: High 6°C, Low 1°C. Light cloud and a gentle breeze.
- Monday, December 29: High 6°C, Low 2°C. Light cloud and light winds.
- Tuesday, December 30: High 6°C, Low 1°C. Sunny and light winds.
- Wednesday, December 31 (New Year's Eve): High 6°C, Low 1°C. Drizzle and light winds.
- Thursday, January 1 (New Year's Day): High 6°C, Low 1°C. Light rain and light winds.
- Friday, January 2: High 5°C, Low 1°C. Sunny intervals and light winds.
A Chilly Start to 2026
Looking further into January, the BBC's long-range outlook suggests a particularly chilly spell for the UK from early to mid-month. The forecast commentary warns: “Given some relatively cold air close to the UK, this may bring the chance of some wintry hazards in places.” This indicates that after the New Year's rain, London and other parts of the country should brace for a period of cold weather, with potential for frost and ice.
For now, revellers are advised to keep a close eye on the London weather forecast and prepare for the likelihood of umbrellas and waterproofs being essential accessories for seeing in 2026.
