Mild, wet and sunny: how October 2026 looked for the Midlands

Mild, wet and sunny might sound like an unlikely mix, but that is exactly what October 2026 delivered for the Midlands, according to the Met Office's provisional figures for the month.

The region was warmer, wetter and sunnier than its long-term average, in a month that brought two named storms in quick succession.

The Midlands in numbers

The Midlands recorded a mean temperature of 11.5°C in October, 1.1°C above the 1991-2020 average. Rainfall reached 88.4mm, 108% of average, and the region enjoyed 123.1 hours of sunshine, 124% of its October norm.

Across the UK, October was the ninth month in a row with above-average temperatures. The UK's provisional mean temperature was 10.6°C, 0.9°C above average, and it was the UK's fifth-sunniest October since records began in 1910.

Storms at the end of the month

Met Office scientist Dr Emily Carlisle said: "October saw a notable shift towards more unsettled weather, with low-pressure systems bringing repeated spells of rain through the month. Rainfall was particularly concentrated towards the end of October as Storms Austen and Storm Boelo affected the UK in quick succession."

Storm Boelo made 24 October provisionally the joint-sixth wettest day on record for the UK as a whole.

Rain fell more heavily elsewhere. Northern Scotland had 131% of its average October rainfall, and south-east and central southern England 123%. East Anglia saw the biggest temperature rise above normal, at 1.3°C.

The drought is not over

Despite the wet end to the month, the Environment Agency says the effects of the long dry spell through spring, summer and early autumn are still being felt. Its Chief Executive, Philip Duffy, said: "The recent rain is welcome, but the drought isn't over. A few wet days cannot reverse months of hot, dry weather."

He added: "Everyone can help. Using a little less water, from taking shorter showers to turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, makes a difference."

What about this week?

High pressure is in charge for now. Met Office Chief Forecaster Steve Willington said: "High pressure is in charge this week, with settled conditions and little in the way of rain. Though there will be some showers here and there, these will be fairly light."

He said a brisk easterly breeze would make it feel chillier in the south, with temperatures elsewhere around normal for the time of year, trending a little cooler by Friday.

That is good news for anyone heading to a Bonfire Night display tomorrow evening: wrap up warm against the breeze, and keep an eye on the latest forecast for any showers.