The Late Winter Atmosphere
In mid-February, London resides in a deep, late-winter phase where the air is characterized by a "raw" chill. This isn't the crisp, dry cold of a continental winter, but a damp, penetrating cold that clings to you. The sky is typically dominated by a thick, slate-gray blanket of stratocumulus clouds, occurring roughly 66% of the time, which creates the classic "moody" London aesthetic.
Daily Weather Rhythms
- Morning Mist and Fog: The day often begins with a heavy dampness. While true "pea-souper" fogs are rare in the modern city, you will frequently encounter mist and low-hanging clouds that shroud the tops of taller buildings. Frost is common during the early hours if the previous night was clear.
- The Afternoon "Brightening": February days are short but gaining ground, offering about 10 hours of daylight. If the sun does break through, it usually happens between noon and 3:00 PM, though it rarely feels warm. Most afternoons see a continuation of light, intermittent drizzle rather than heavy downpours.
- Evening Cooling: As soon as the sun sets (typically around 5:15 PM), the temperature drops rapidly. The humidity remains high (averaging 84%), making the evening air feel significantly colder than the thermometer suggests.
Seasonal Trends & Phenomena
- The Struggle for Spring: This period is a meteorological "tug-of-war." You may experience a few days of unseasonably mild air pushing in from the Atlantic, followed immediately by a "Beast from the East"—biting winds coming off the Eurasian landmass that can bring sudden snow flurries.
- The Snowiest Month: Statistically, February is the most likely month for snowfall in London. While accumulation is often minimal in the city center, the city effectively prepares for a wintry mix of sleet and light snow during this specific week.
- Marine Layer Influence: Despite being inland, London's weather is heavily dictated by the sea. The prevailing southwesterly winds bring moisture-laden air that keeps the city's temperature more moderate than northern England, but at the cost of persistent cloud cover.
Microclimates & The Urban Heat Island
London experiences a significant Urban Heat Island effect. The concrete and activity of Central London (The City and West End) typically stay 2-3°C warmer than the leafy suburbs of Greater London. If you travel outward toward Richmond or Hampstead Heath, expect noticeably crisper air and a higher likelihood of frost or lingering snow on the grass compared to the paved streets of Westminster.
Historical Context
This is a transitional period. Historically, it is one of the drier months in terms of total rainfall volume, but it feels like one of the wettest because the rain falls as a constant, light "mizzle" (mist/drizzle) rather than distinct storms. Locals treat this as the final hurdle of winter; the first crocuses may begin to poke through the soil in royal parks, signaling that the damp gloom is reaching its end.