England’s Wettest March in Over 40 Years as Wales and Northern Ireland Soak Up Record Rain
Rain Drenches England, Wales, and Northern Ireland
England has seen its wettest March since 1981, with Wales and Northern Ireland also ranking among their top ten wettest Marches since records began in 1836, according to provisional data from the Met Office up to 30 March.
Despite this deluge, historic rainfall records stand firm. England’s March record of 147.2mm, set in 1947, is safe. Northern Ireland’s 2019 record of 160.7mm and Wales’s top marks of 198.6mm in 1994 and 287.5mm in 1981 are also untouched.
With more rain forecast for 31 March, official totals and final rankings will be confirmed on 3 April.
A Month to Forget for Sunshine
The UK has experienced a gloomier March overall, with many parts shrouded in dull skies. Only parts of northwest Scotland saw sunshine above average. Wales is on track for one of its dullest Marches since 1910.
Counties like Devon, Somerset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire may notch one of their dreariest Marches on record — final data pending.
Temperature Swings: Cold Start, Mild Finish
March began with a chilly bite, especially in northern Scotland where temperatures plunged to –16.0°C at Altnaharra on 9 March amid snow and ice. The second half of the month warmed up, bringing temperatures in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland back to average. Scotland stayed cooler than usual.
Experts Weigh In on March Madness
“Although the month started cold and dry for many, moist, milder air pushed up from the south bringing frequent heavy rain, especially in southern UK,” said Dr Mark McCarthy, Head of the National Climate Information Centre.
“This unsettled weather was dominated by Atlantic low pressure systems, with southern and central England and south Wales seeing more than double the normal rainfall, a huge flip from February’s dry spell.”
Environment Agency Executive Director John Leyland added: “March’s rain has boosted water levels, but follows a dry February. We must stay alert, particularly where drought recovery lags behind. Water companies and partners are working hard to secure resources for summer and beyond. Everyone must continue to use water wisely to protect our rivers and wildlife.”
Final Thoughts
Dr McCarthy summed it up: “March 2023 will be remembered as a dull, wet month — especially in southern UK. The heavy rain hasn’t yet offset last year’s dry spells. Snowfall impacted northern areas, but it was a typical March snow event for the UK.”
