January 2025 was the third wettest January since 1947 in Luxembourg
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This past January will be remembered by the people of Luxembourg for record rainfall. According to MeteoLux, 148.1 litres/m² of rain fell during the month, making January 2025 the third wettest January since weather records began in 1947.
This indicator exceeds the climatic norm (1991-2020) by 106% - the average level of precipitation for this period is 72 l/m². The first and third ten-day periods of the month were especially rainy, when the country was hit by a series of active atmospheric fronts.
The wettest day was 5 January, when almost 25 litres/m² of rain fell.
MeteoLux specialists explain the situation by strong negative anomalies of atmospheric pressure over the North Atlantic and Western Europe. This led to active cyclogenesis, with frequent and intense rain fronts formed.
Such conditions are typical of the winter season, but this year the situation was extreme.
Despite significant rainfall, January 2025 did not break an all-time record. The wettest remain:
- January 1995 - 197.1 litres/m²
- January 1988 - 195.5 litres/m²
- January 2025 - 148.1 litres/m²
So while January 2025 was not the wettest January on record, it was among the top 3 wettest winter months in more than 75 years of observations.
Excessive winter precipitation increases the risk of waterlogging, soil erosion and soil moisture saturation, which can affect agriculture and infrastructure.
Experts warn that if such climatic anomalies become regular, it could change the region's water balance and require adaptation of drainage systems and water management.
Given global climate change, Luxembourg could face even more frequent extreme weather events in the coming years.
