18/02/2026 – Weather in Cornwall – Yellow Weather Warning For Rain

A yellow weather warning for rain has been issued by the Met Office from 6:00am today, Wednesday 18th February 2026, until 8:00am tomorrow.

Spells of heavy rain could lead to some flooding and disruption to travel during Wednesday and Thursday.

What to expect

The Met Office says 10 to 20mm of rain is expected quite widely. A few places near the south coast could see 20 to 30mm, and there may be as much as 50mm over Dartmoor.

Strong east to northeasterly winds will accompany the rain and or snow, which could exacerbate impacts in places. Large waves could affect some east-facing coasts, especially along the English Channel.

Some snow is also likely over higher ground, chiefly during Wednesday night.

According to the warning, residents may see:

• Spray and flooding on roads, probably making journey times longer

• Bus and train services probably affected, with journey times taking longer

• Flooding of a few homes and businesses possible

• Some interruption to power supplies and other services possible

What should you do?

The Met Office advises people to check if their property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

Those planning to travel are encouraged to check road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, and amend travel plans if necessary to avoid delays.

People are also reminded that they cope better with power cuts when they have prepared in advance. Gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items could make a difference.

The Met Office says weather warnings can change quickly and recommends staying up to date with the forecast in your area.

Why is the warning yellow?

The warning has been given a yellow rating because there is a medium likelihood and a low impact.

Residents across southern parts of England are being urged to keep an eye on the latest forecasts as conditions develop through Wednesday and into Thursday morning.

Heavy Rain Warning for South West: Risk of Localised Flooding Before Milder Weekend Arrives

People across the South West can expect some heavy rain today, with a risk of localised flooding before conditions turn milder by the weekend.

Here is the latest forecast covering Wednesday 18th February to Sunday 22nd February.

Wednesday: Heavy Rain and Flood Risk

Wednesday will be cloudy and breezy, with outbreaks of rain and drizzle. At times, this could turn heavy and persistent, bringing a risk of localised flooding.

Although temperatures are expected to reach a maximum of 9°C, it may feel colder due to the unsettled and unpleasant conditions.

Tonight: Rain Easing Later

It will remain rather cloudy and often breezy overnight, with further outbreaks of rain. However, this should ease later in the night, with the possibility of some clearer breaks developing in the west.

Temperatures are forecast to dip to a minimum of 1°C.

Thursday: Gradually Brighter from the West

On Thursday, rain may take some time to clear in eastern areas. Brighter spells are expected to gradually extend from the west, along with a few showers.

The maximum temperature on Thursday is forecast to reach 8°C.

Friday to Sunday: Milder but Unsettled

Looking ahead to the weekend, any overnight frost on Friday morning will clear. It will then turn much milder through Saturday and Sunday.

However, the weather will remain unsettled, with rain and brisk winds at times.

Further updates are expected as conditions develop.