England Soggiest March Since 1981
England has just endured its wettest March in over four decades. Wales and Northern Ireland weren’t far behind, also experiencing some of their heaviest March rainfall since records began in 1836.
Rainfall Soars Across UK
- England recorded 111.3mm of rain – a whopping 91% above average.
- Wales faced 197.5mm, nearly doubling its usual March downpour by 91% more.
- Northern Ireland saw 137.4mm, 58% more than normal.
- Scotland’s rain was steady with 128.7mm, just 3% above average.
According to the Met Office, these figures place England, Wales, and Northern Ireland’s rainfall in the top ten wettest Marches on record.
Why So Wet? Met Office Explains
Dr Mark McCarthy, head of the National Climate Information Centre, said: “Although the month started cold and dry for many, moist, milder air soon pushed up from the south bringing frequent heavy periods of rain. This was longest-lasting in the southern half of the UK.”
He added: “This unsettled month was dominated by Atlantic low-pressure systems, drenching southern and central England and south Wales with more than double their average rainfall. Yet water companies and agencies are already working hard to manage water supplies ahead of summer and future droughts.”
He urged the public: “We must continue to use water wisely to protect rivers, lakes, wildlife, and the environment.”
March Misses the Sunshine Mark
Sunshine was scarce across much of the UK, with dull skies dominating all but a few counties.
The month started chilly with snow and ice, especially in northern Scotland. Temperatures plunged to -16°C at Altnaharra on 9 March, with daytime highs struggling to break freezing.
Warmer air returned later, bringing temperatures closer to average in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, though Scotland stayed cooler than usual.
Dr McCarthy summed up March 2023: “It will be remembered as a dull, wet month, especially in the south. While the heavy rain helped, it hasn’t erased the drought concerns from the past year. Snow in northern areas was disruptive but typical for March.”
