Why has the UK had so much rain recently?

Overflow from the River Severn has caused flooding underneath the A4440 in Worcester (Picture: Emma Trimble/SWNS)

Brits have endured a sodden start to the year, with relentless downpours making January one of the wettest on record.

The UK recorded 17% more rainfall than usual last month, according to the Met Office, and there is little sign of the deluge letting up.

And after a triple whammy of storms already in 2026, the UK is braced for more flooding, with 101 flood warnings and 160 alerts issued on Tuesday morning.