Recent weather patterns in North East Scotland have led to unprecedented rainfall, sparking concern and disruption across the region. January saw Aboyne experience a staggering 277mm of rain, nearly four times its average for the month, while Aberdeen faced the longest stretch without sunshine since records began in 1957. This relentless wet weather has impacted various sectors, from agriculture to sports, raising questions about long-term climate trends.
Unprecedented Rainfall and Its Consequences
The last ten days of January brought a significant shift in weather, characterised by heavy snow followed by relentless rain. The Met Office has reported that January 2026 has become one of the wettest months on record for the area, with Aboyne officially marking its wettest month since 1989. In stark contrast, Aviemore, just 40 miles away, recorded less than half its average rainfall, highlighting the regional disparity.
The continuous downpour has led to minor flooding on roads surrounding Aberdeen, making travel hazardous. The Aberdeenshire Council has issued warnings, urging the public to exercise caution while navigating affected areas. “We continue to experience persistent heavy rainfall which is impacting parts of our road network with areas of localised flooding,” a council spokesperson stated. “We advise everyone to drive carefully and heed road closure signs.”
Impact on Local Industries
This extreme weather has not only affected everyday life but also various local industries. North Sea oil companies have had to evacuate staff from installations due to supply chain disruptions caused by the adverse weather. Farmers are grappling with the consequences of saturated fields, which have rendered low-lying areas submerged and livestock movement increasingly challenging. Kevin Gilbert, chairman of NFU Scotland in the North East, described the situation as “horrendous,” noting the ongoing difficulties in planning agricultural activities due to the relentless rain.
Sports events have also been severely affected, with the postponement of key fixtures, including Celtic’s match against Aberdeen. Celtic expressed regret over the late decision to call off the match, which left many supporters already en route. The Scottish Cup clash between Aberdeen and Motherwell remains in the balance as weather conditions continue to evolve.
Understanding the Weather Patterns
Meteorologists attribute this unusual weather phenomenon to a “blocked weather pattern.” This blockage has prevented the jet stream—responsible for much of the UK’s weather—from shifting, thus limiting the possibility of drier conditions. The jet stream has been strengthened by cold air from North America, driving low-pressure systems toward Scotland and anchoring high-pressure systems over Scandinavia.
Gillian Smart, a BBC Scotland Weather presenter, explained, “This powerful jet has been propelling Atlantic low-pressure systems towards our shores while high pressure remains fixed over Scandinavia.” This situation has resulted in slow-moving bands of rain, and because the ground has had little opportunity to dry out, even moderate rainfall is causing further flooding.
Community Responses and Future Outlook
Residents have been encouraged to engage with their community, with local events like Aberdeen’s Spectra festival of light urging attendees to brave the elements with appropriate attire. Meanwhile, environmental agencies continue to monitor water levels, with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency issuing numerous flood warnings.
Looking ahead, the forecast remains unsettled, with further rain and the potential for hill snow expected in the coming days. The situation is fluid, and as the region navigates these challenges, it remains essential for communities to stay informed and prepared.
Why it Matters
The recent spate of extreme weather in North East Scotland serves as a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change. As scientists predict that warming temperatures could lead to increased rainfall, local communities must adapt to these new realities. The ongoing challenges faced by farmers, infrastructure, and everyday life highlight the urgent need for effective climate strategies and community resilience in the face of unpredictable weather patterns. Addressing these issues is crucial not only for immediate recovery but also for long-term sustainability and safety.
