Is There A Link Between Wet Weather And UK Workers’ Productivity?

In the UK, it rains on almost half of the days of the year, according to research referenced in a new survey done by Orega. But seems that it wasn’t in people’s imagination that this actually impacts how people feel about their working day.

To be exact, 32% of workers, according to Orega’s findings, say that wet weather negatively affects their motivation or productivity. The survey also found that 57% admit rain makes them reconsider commuting into the office. The data comes as hybrid working remains common, with around 34% of full time employees using hybrid arrangements, according to the research cited in the report.

At the same time, 43% say rain does not stop them commuting. The results do not paint a single story of people avoiding work when it pours. They show a workforce weighing up comfort, convenience and purpose each time dark clouds gather.

Lucas Botzen, HR expert at Rivermate, says the effect can build gradually. He said, “For many people, dark, wet, or cold conditions can make the journey feel more stressful or exhausting, which can reduce their willingness to travel and affect their energy levels for the workday. Beyond commuting, rainy weather can also influence mood and focus more generally. It’s not always drastic, but over time, a series of gloomy, wet days can subtly lower motivation and engagement if employees feel less energised or cooped up indoors.”

Research from the survey also says people are less happy during wet conditions compared to sunny days. Psychologists agree with the idea that sunshine is often associated with positive outdoor experiences, whereas grey skies can bring to mind cancelled plans or inconvenience.

Are Grey Skies Always Bad For Productivity?

The story is not entirely negative. Carly Jenner, Global People and Culture Expert, believes rainy days can sometimes help people concentrate.

She said, “Wet and rainy weather does affect employee motivation, but not always in the way we assume. In fact, dreary weather can actually increase focus and productivity because there’s less temptation to be outside enjoying the sun or good weather. With fewer external distractions, people can often concentrate more deeply and employee productivity actually increases.”

Jenner adds that the bigger effect appears in commuting habits. She said, “Where bad weather really makes a difference is in people’s willingness to commute. For many employees, the extra effort, stress, and lost time that comes with commuting in bad weather can meaningfully reduce their willingness to go into a physical workplace, particularly for high-performing talent who are highly protective of their time and work–life balance. That’s where flexibility becomes an appealing alternative.”

Botzen also mentioned flexibility as a practical response. He said, “Offering flexible working arrangements can help employees avoid the stress of commuting while still staying productive. Employers can also focus on creating a positive and energising office environment with spaces for social connection, or small perks like hot drinks or casual check-ins, to counteract the dreariness of the weather.”

The comments are implying that rain does not automatically mean lower output. It can mean fewer people travelling, and changes in mood that managers need to understand.

Can Better Offices Tempt Workers Out In The Rain?

Orega’s research says that the design and comfort of a workspace can influence decisions on wet days. Across the UK, 71% of workers say access to a comfortable, well designed office would make commuting in the rain more appealing.

Mathew Moore, Marketing Director at Orega, sets out practical changes employers can make. On lighting, he said, “During bad weather, moving away from harsh lighting to instead use a mix of lamps and accent lighting can create a warmer and more inviting environment. Maximising daylight is also crucial. Make the most of the natural light by keeping windows clear of obstructions and positioning desks near them.”

On interiors, he said, “Incorporating natural materials such as wood, stone and wool will add warmth and reduce stress. Mix these materials with greenery in the form of indoor plants and choose furniture with soft lines to create a less clinical feel.”

He also emphasised breakout areas: “Having breakout spaces to connect with colleagues and get a change of scenery throughout the day is an important element of our workspaces. Being able to move around the office during the day to spaces where you can take a break, collaborate, or work in a more relaxed setting makes the office a much more enjoyable place to be.”

Moore said, “Another key feature of all our workplaces is their high-spec functionality which provides extra perks that not everyone has access to at home. Things like zoned temperature control, soundproof meeting pods and tech-enabled meeting rooms all help to make the office a more appealing choice.”

Finally, he touched on day to day experience, when he said: “Design is important but how a space feels day-to-day matters just as much. A friendly, professional on-site team, small thoughtful touches and a consistently high level of service can genuinely lift morale, especially on dark, wet days when energy can dip. When people feel welcomed, supported and valued, the office becomes somewhere they want to be, not somewhere they have to be.”

Moore said, “The UK’s weather isn’t changing any time soon, but how people work within it certainly is. Our data shows that employees aren’t necessarily avoiding the office, but that they are being more intentional about when and why they come in.

“When the workspace feels comfortable, well-designed and genuinely supports productivity, it becomes a worthwhile destination rather than an obligation. Our focus has always been on creating professional but inviting environments where businesses can concentrate on what matters most, whether that’s collaboration, focused work or simply having a reliable base in the heart of the city.”