26/01/2026 – Weather in Cornwall – Yellow Weather Warning For Rain

Heavy Rain Warning Issued as Flood Risk Rises Across the South West

A yellow weather warning for rain has been issued by the Met Office, covering parts of southern and south west England, including Cornwall.

The warning is in place from 3pm today, Monday 26th January 2026, until 12pm tomorrow.

What’s expected

Outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, are forecast from Monday afternoon through to Tuesday morning. Conditions are expected to ease later on Tuesday, turning to heavy showers.

Rainfall totals of 20 to 30mm are expected in many areas, with 50 to 80mm likely over higher ground, particularly Dartmoor, Exmoor and Bannau Brycheiniog, also known as the Brecon Beacons.

With ground already saturated following recent wet weather, the Met Office says this could increase the risk of flooding in some places. Strong south easterly winds are also expected.

Possible impacts

The Met Office has warned that the following impacts are possible during the warning period:

• Homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings

• Delays or cancellations to bus and train services

• Difficult driving conditions due to spray and flooding, with some road closures possible

• Some communities may be cut off by flooded roads

• Possible power cuts and loss of other services to homes and businesses

Advice for residents

People are being advised to check whether their property is at risk of flooding and to consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit if needed.

Those planning to travel are encouraged to check road conditions and public transport timetables in advance and amend plans where necessary.

The Met Office also advises being prepared for possible power cuts by having torches, batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items ready.

Why the warning is yellow

The yellow warning reflects a low likelihood but medium impact, meaning disruption is possible, particularly in areas already affected by wet ground conditions.

People are advised to stay up to date with the latest local forecasts, as weather warnings can change quickly.

Gales and Heavy Rain Set to Batter Cornwall This Week

A cloudy start to the week across south west England is set to turn very wet and windy, with the worst conditions expected on Tuesday.

Monday 26th January

Early fog and frost are forecast to clear during the morning, with a little brightness in places. Southeasterly winds will freshen as the day goes on, bringing further rain that is expected to be heavy at times.

The rain will affect Devon and Cornwall first, before spreading east through the afternoon. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 5°C.

Monday Night

Heavy rain is forecast to cover much of the region overnight as winds continue to increase. Conditions are expected to become more showery in the far south west, where winds are likely to be strongest before dawn. Temperatures are expected to fall to around 2°C.

Tuesday 27th January

Winds are set to strengthen further across Devon and Cornwall, with gale to severe gale-force winds expected in exposed areas. Rain is forecast to clear northwards, allowing brighter spells to develop, although showers are likely to form during the afternoon. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 9°C.

Outlook for Wednesday to Friday

The weather is expected to remain unsettled through Wednesday and into Thursday, with further showers forecast. Some of these could be heavy, although winds are expected to ease. There is the possibility of brighter spells at times, with temperatures staying close to the seasonal average through to Friday.