February 11, 2026 – Cardinham, Cornwall — Residents of the small Cornish village of Cardinham say they are struggling to cope after 41 consecutive days of rainfall, a streak that has saturated farmland, flooded roads and tested community resilience.
The persistent wet weather, which began in early January, has left fields waterlogged and minor roads intermittently impassable. Local farmers report delayed planting schedules and mounting concerns about soil health if the pattern continues.
“It feels relentless,” said one resident, standing near a lane partially submerged in standing water. “We’re used to rain in Cornwall, but not like this.”
According to local meteorological data, rainfall totals in the area have exceeded seasonal averages by a significant margin. While February often brings unsettled conditions, this prolonged stretch has drawn attention to broader questions about extreme weather frequency and infrastructure preparedness.
Cornwall Council confirmed that drainage crews have been deployed repeatedly to clear blocked culverts and manage surface water build-up. Temporary road closures have been introduced in several rural areas to prevent vehicle damage and reduce safety risks.
Primary schools in the surrounding district have remained open, though parents report occasional transport disruptions due to minor flooding on country lanes. Local businesses, particularly pubs and small retailers reliant on tourism traffic, say footfall has dipped during the extended downpour.
Agricultural representatives warn that prolonged saturation can weaken crop yields later in the year. “It’s not just about today’s inconvenience,” said a farming association spokesperson. “It affects planting cycles, livestock movement and long-term soil structure.”
Environmental groups argue that episodes like this underscore the need for stronger flood management planning. They advocate expanded natural floodplains, wetland restoration and investment in rural drainage systems.
The Met Office indicates that while a brief drier spell may arrive later this week, unsettled conditions could persist into the weekend. Officials stress that the rainfall streak, while unusual, does not yet represent a record for the region.
For residents, however, statistics offer limited comfort. Gardens have become muddy expanses, and some households report minor damp issues in older properties. Community volunteers have checked in on elderly neighbours to ensure access routes remain safe.
Local councillors are expected to raise the matter during upcoming regional meetings, seeking assurances that additional support will be available if conditions worsen.
As clouds hovered low over rolling hills on Wednesday morning, villagers expressed cautious hope that clearer skies may soon return. Until then, Cardinham continues to navigate what many describe as one of the wettest starts to a year in recent memory.
