Last month was one of the WETTEST Januarys on record in Britain

"'January has been exceptionally wet because we've seen a very persistent Atlantic weather pattern,' explained Met Office science manager Dr Amy Doherty. 'A strong jet stream has repeatedly steered low-pressure systems towards the UK, bringing frequent spells of rain and wind. 'With little opportunity for drier conditions in between, the ground has become saturated, so even moderate rainfall has had a greater impact. 'This succession of Atlantic systems is the main reason rainfall totals this month are well above average for many areas.'"

"Overall, the UK recorded 17 per cent more rainfall than the long-term meteorological average, according to the Met Office. Northern Ireland had 70 per cent more rain than average, while England experienced 50 per cent more than avarege. However, there was a clear north-south divide in England. Northern England recorded just 10 per cent more rain than average, while the south of the country was battered with 74 per cent more than avarege."

January was one of the wettest on record in Britain, with UK rainfall 17% above the long-term average. A persistent Atlantic pattern and a strong jet stream steered repeated low-pressure systems across the UK, producing frequent rain and wind with little respite. Saturated ground amplified impacts so moderate rainfall had greater effect. Northern Ireland received about 70% more rain and had its wettest January in 149 years; England had roughly 50% more overall, with southern England 74% above average while northern England was 10% above. Scotland saw below-average rainfall. Storm Chandra on 26 January produced extreme totals such as 100.8mm at Katesbridge, County Down.

Read at Mail Online