Honestly, if you're standing on the end of Southend Pier today, January 18, 2026, you're probably feeling that bite in the air that only the Thames Estuary can provide. It's one of those classic Essex winter days where the sky looks like a wet sheet of lead and the humidity makes 48°F feel a whole lot colder than the thermometer suggests.
The weather forecast for southend on sea essex today is basically a lesson in "layering up." We’re looking at a high of 48°F, but with humidity sitting at a heavy 84%, it’s that damp cold that gets right into your bones.
What's happening right now?
Right now, it's partly sunny, which is a bit of a treat for January in these parts. We've got a gentle 5 mph breeze coming in from the southeast. It’s not a gale, but it’s enough to keep the sea mist swirling.
The UV index is a flat 0. You won't be needing the SPF today, unfortunately. If you’re planning a walk along the front towards Thorpe Bay, keep an eye on those clouds—while it’s 48°F now, it’s going to dip to a chilly 42°F tonight.
The week ahead: Will it rain?
Most people check the weather forecast for southend on sea essex because they want to know if they’ll get soaked while heading to the shops or taking the dog to Belfairs Woods.
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- Sunday (Today): Mostly cloudy with a measly 10% chance of rain. Basically, you're safe for a walk, but don't be shocked if a stray drop hits your windshield.
- Monday: It actually warms up a tiny bit to 51°F, but the clouds aren't going anywhere.
- Tuesday & Wednesday: This is where things get a bit messy. We’re expecting drizzle and more consistent rain as we hit mid-week. Wednesday looks particularly soggy with a much higher chance of precipitation—up to 85% in some models—so maybe save the outdoor chores for today.
Tidal influences and the "Micro-Climate"
Southend is weird. You’ve probably noticed the weather can be totally different here than it is ten miles inland in Basildon or Chelmsford. That’s the water for you.
The North Sea acts like a giant radiator that’s lost its thermostat. On a day like today, the sea temperature is hanging around 7°C (45°F). Because the water is almost the same temperature as the air, it creates this stable, grey blanket of cloud that just sits over the Golden Mile.
If you're heading down to the water, the tides are doing their thing:
- High water was at 12:22 PM (reaching about 5.33m).
- Low water is coming up at 6:29 PM.
If you like those long, moody photos of the mudflats, that 6:00 PM window is your best bet, though you'll be losing the light fast since the sun sets around 4:22 PM.
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Common Misconceptions about Essex Winters
People often think the coast is always windier than inland. While that's often true, today is actually quite calm. A 5 mph wind is barely a rustle in the trees. The real "killer" today isn't the wind; it's the 88% humidity forecast for the evening.
When the humidity is that high in January, the air is saturated. It's why your car windows will be a nightmare to clear tomorrow morning and why your coat might feel slightly damp even if it hasn't rained a drop.
Expert Tips for Braving Southend Today
If you’re out and about, here is the reality of the weather forecast for southend on sea essex:
Don't trust the "Partly Sunny" label for too long. In January, the transition from "nice afternoon" to "freezing grey evening" happens in about twenty minutes.
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Wear a windbreaker even if the wind is low. The moisture in the air conducts heat away from your body faster. A thin, waterproof outer layer over a warm fleece is the "pro move" for the Essex coast.
If you’re a photographer, the "golden hour" is roughly 3:30 PM to 4:20 PM today. With the high cloud cover, you might get some incredible purple and pink hues reflecting off the estuary mud as the tide goes out.
Actionable Next Steps:
Check your wiper blades and top up your screen wash this afternoon. With the humidity rising tonight and rain expected by Tuesday, the roads around the A127 and A13 are going to be greasy and visibility will drop. If you're planning a trip to the pier, aim for before 3:00 PM to catch the best of the remaining light.