Londoners planning to welcome 2026 with outdoor festivities should prepare for a damp evening, as the Met Office forecasts rain to sweep across the capital on New Year's Eve.
A Drizzly Start to the Evening
According to the latest predictions, light rain is expected to begin drizzling over London from around 7pm on Tuesday, 31st December 2025. This timing coincides with when many revellers will be starting their celebrations, meaning umbrellas and waterproofs may be essential accessories for the night.
Rain to Persist Through Midnight and Beyond
The unsettled conditions are not set to be a brief interruption. Forecasters indicate the wet weather will persist throughout the night as people ring in the new year. Contrary to hopes for a clear midnight, the drizzle is forecast to continue unabated as 2026 begins.
Unfortunately, the new year looks set to start on a similarly soggy note. The Met Office expects the damp weather to linger into the early hours of New Year's Day, Wednesday 1st January 2026. While heavy downpours are not currently anticipated, the consistent light rain will be enough to put a damper on outdoor events and travel.
Planning for a Wet Celebration
This forecast suggests that iconic outdoor gatherings, such as those along the Thames, may require significant preparation. The Met Office advice implies that indoor venues or well-covered locations might be the most comfortable options for seeing in the new year.
The prediction of rain throughout the night and into the early morning also highlights the importance of planning transport home in advance, as conditions may be slippery and visibility reduced.
