Honestly, if you’re standing in the middle of Piccadilly Circus today, Sunday, January 18, 2026, looking for that stereotypical "London fog," you're probably just going to find a lot of grey clouds instead. It’s kinda damp. The humidity is sitting at a heavy 86%, which basically means the air feels much thicker than the actual temperature suggests.
The current temperature is 49°F.
People think London in January is a frozen wasteland. It isn't. But it’s a specific kind of cold that gets under your skin because of that moisture. Right now, there’s a light breeze coming from the east at 6 mph. It’s not a gale, but it’s enough to make you regret leaving your scarf in the hotel room.
What is the weather in London actually doing today?
If you’re planning to hit the Southbank or queue for the London Eye, here is the deal: it’s staying cloudy for the rest of the day. We are looking at a high of 52°F and a low of 43°F tonight.
You’ve probably heard that it rains every single day here. While the chance of precipitation is only 10% right now, don’t let that low number fool you. In London, a 10% chance often manifests as a "mizzle"—that annoying mix of mist and drizzle that doesn't quite show up on radar but definitely ruins a good blowout.
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The sun set around 4:20 PM, so the city is already in that "nighttime glow" phase. The UV index is a flat 0, so you can save the sunscreen for your summer trip to Ibiza.
Real-talk on the January forecast
January is statistically one of the grimmest months here, but today is actually relatively mild compared to the historical average of 44°F. We're sitting a few degrees above that, which makes walking between museums a lot more bearable.
Most people get the packing part wrong. They bring these massive, floor-length arctic parkas. Then they get on the Tube—specifically the Central Line—and realize it's roughly the temperature of the sun's surface down there. You end up sweating, then you step back out into the 49°F damp air, and that is exactly how you catch a cold.
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Survival guide for the London chill
Basically, you need layers. A wool coat is the local uniform for a reason. It breathes. Pair it with a "Uniqlo Heattech" or some kind of thermal base layer, and you’re golden.
- Footwear: If you’re wearing canvas sneakers today, your feet are going to be cold. Leather boots (like Chelsea boots) are the move. They handle the damp pavement way better.
- The Umbrella Situation: With only a 10% chance of rain, you might think you’re safe. You aren't. London wind, even at 6 mph, can be gusty near the river. If you buy a cheap £5 umbrella from a tourist shop, it will be inside-out within ten minutes. Get a sturdy one or just wear a jacket with a hood.
- Daylight: It’s short. You’ve only got about 8.4 hours of actual daylight this time of year. If you want those "aesthetic" shots of Westminster, you have to get them early.
Why the "London Gloom" is actually okay
There’s a weird misconception that bad weather ruins a London trip. It doesn't. The city is built for this. Pubs are cozier when it’s 49°F and cloudy outside. The museums are world-class and, more importantly, heated.
If you’re wondering what to do with this specific Sunday weather, head to a pub for a Sunday Roast. There is nothing better than being tucked into a corner of a wood-paneled room in Hampstead or Soho while it’s grey and "mizzly" outside.
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Actionable steps for your Sunday in London:
- Check the wind direction: Since it's coming from the east, the walk along the Thames toward Westminster will feel a bit nippier than usual.
- Layer down for the Tube: If you’re taking the Underground, take your coat off as soon as you get on the platform. Trust me.
- Plan for an early dinner: Since it’s already dark by 4:30 PM, the "evening vibe" starts early. Most kitchens for Sunday roasts close earlier than usual (often by 6 PM or 7 PM), so don't wait too late to find food.
The weather in London today is basically a "standard British winter day"—not too cold, definitely not sunny, but perfectly fine for exploring if you've got the right coat.