By Rod Hill on 2011-04-01
Update: March 31st , Three Records Fall This Month!
1. 23 consecutive days of measurable rainfall - a new record. The old record was 16 straight days back in 2003.
2. Portland (PDX) had measurable rainfall 28 of 31 days. This is a new record for the most days with measurable rainfall in the month. The climate average for the entire month is 17 days. The old record was March of 2003, when 27 of 31 days saw .01" of rainfall.
Total monthly rainfall is 6.43". Monthly average is 3.71". March 2011 is now the 5th wettest in the PDX records, dating back to 1941. The wettest March at PDX was 1957 when 7.52" fell.
3. March 31st becomes the latest in the year to reach 60 degrees at PDX for the first time. The old record for the latest date to reach 60 was March 27th, back in 1955. The all-time record at all reporting stations for the latest date to hit 60 degrees is April 9th, back in 1875.
Interesting that the wet March of 2003 went on to have a very wet April, in fact the month holds the record for consecutive wet days at 13. The good news is that, May & June of 2003 were both very, very dry and warm! In case you are wondering, spring of 2003 was considered "neutral conditions". This year, we are seeing a weakening La Nina.
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The above clearly illustrates how wet and cool this March has been!
Full Moon & Vernal Equinox