20/01/2026 – Weather in Cornwall – Yellow Weather Warning For Wind

A Yellow Weather Warning for wind is in place today, Tuesday 20th January 2026, with strong conditions expected to cause disruption across parts of the South West.

The warning, issued by the Met Office, runs from 4am until 4pm and highlights the potential for travel delays and hazardous coastal conditions.

What to Expect Today

South easterly winds are forecast to strengthen through the morning, becoming gusty in many areas. Gusts of 45 to 50 mph are likely, particularly over and to the northwest of high ground.

As the day progresses, a band of heavy rain is expected to reach the Isles of Scilly before dawn and then move eastwards. This rain band will be accompanied by inland wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph, with the possibility of 60 to 65 mph gusts over the most exposed hills and coastal areas.

Winds are expected to ease once the rain has cleared.

Travel Disruption Likely

The Met Office says delays to road, rail, air and ferry services are likely. Some bus and train services may be affected, with journeys taking longer than usual.

High sided vehicles could experience delays on exposed routes and bridges, and there is also a chance of short term power cuts and disruption to other services.

Coastal Conditions

Coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities are likely to be affected by spray and large waves. The Met Office warns that even from the shore, large breaking waves can be dangerous and may sweep people off their feet and into the sea.

Anyone walking near cliffs is advised to take care, know their route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, people should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Advice for Residents

People are advised to check road conditions if driving and to look at bus and train timetables, adjusting travel plans where necessary.

The Met Office also notes that people cope better with power cuts when they are prepared in advance. This includes having torches, batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items ready.

Weather warnings can change quickly, and the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the latest forecast for your area.

Why the Warning Is Yellow

The Yellow Warning has been issued because the likelihood of the weather occurring is considered medium, while the overall impact is expected to be low.

Stormy Week Ahead? Wind and Rain Set to Batter the South West

Unsettled weather is set to continue across South West England from today, Tuesday 20th January, through to Saturday 24th January, with rain and strong winds featuring on most days.

Tuesday 20th January

Low cloud is expected to lift during the day, allowing some bright spells to develop for a time, particularly in eastern areas. However, wet and windy weather will spread from west to east as the day goes on. Gales are likely in exposed western parts of the region.
Maximum temperature: 10°C.

Tonight

Rain will gradually clear eastwards during the evening, bringing a clearer and less blustery spell overnight, although a few showers are still expected. Later in the night, further wind and rain will arrive.
Minimum temperature: 5°C.

Wednesday 21st January

Another unsettled day is forecast. Conditions will be cloudy and windy with rain at times, which could be heavy. Later in the day, the rain may become more showery.
Maximum temperature: 10°C.

Outlook: Thursday to Saturday

The wet and windy pattern continues into Thursday. Brighter spells are expected on Friday and Saturday, but it will remain breezy, with further showers developing at times.

Overall, it looks like a mixed and often blustery week ahead, with only limited breaks in the unsettled conditions.