March Weather in Cork, Ireland

Last updated: March 17, 2025

March in Cork, Ireland presents a dynamic climate characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 16°C (61°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), with lows dipping to -6°C (21°F). Visitors can expect frequent rainfall, with 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, contributing to a notably high humidity level of 84%. This month's variable weather makes it essential for those exploring Cork to prepare for both mild sunny spells and showers, embracing the unique charm of an Irish spring.

March Temperature in Cork

March in Cork, Ireland, marks a notable transition from the chill of winter towards the milder hints of spring. As temperatures dip to a minimum of -6°C (21°F), the month showcases an average of 7°C (44°F), providing a taste of warmth as the days lengthen. The maximum temperature climbs to a refreshing 16°C (61°F), signaling that the region is shaking off the frost. While still retaining a cool edge, March sets the stage for the more inviting temperatures of April and May, illustrating the gradual shift to a more temperate climate as nature awakens. This month beautifully encapsulates the essence of change, blending remnants of winter with the promise of spring's embrace.

March Weather in Cork: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates March temperature patterns in Cork, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434444485257615956514645
Data source: Temperature data for Cork generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

March Precipitation in Cork

March in Cork, Ireland, presents a blend of rainy days and moderate precipitation, characteristic of the early spring months. With 83 mm (3.3 in) of rainfall over 16 days, March falls into a middle ground compared to the preceding months, showing a decrease from February’s 101 mm (4.0 in), yet remains significant in its own right. This pattern suggests a gradual drying trend as winter gives way to spring, even as the frequent showers remain a staple of the Irish climate. The balance of rainfall nurtures the emerging greenery, highlighting the beauty of Cork as it shifts from the damp chill of winter to the fresh vibrancy of spring.

March Precipitation Trends in Cork

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Cork, with values for each month alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how March's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec56101837274606389699580103
Data source: Precipitation data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

March Humidity in Cork

In March, Cork experiences a humidity level of 84%, maintaining a consistent pattern seen throughout the early months of the year. Following January's 83% and February's slight rise to 85%, March marks a subtle decline, yet it remains aligned with the average humidity typical for late winter and early spring. This moderate humidity continues into April and May, where levels stabilize at 84%. Overall, Cork's humidity exhibits a remarkable consistency, hovering around the low to mid-80s throughout the year, making for a moist yet temperate climate that defines its characteristic Irish charm.

March Average Humidity in Cork

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Cork, with March's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how March's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83%85%84%84%84%85%85%84%85%86%84%83%
Data source: Humidity data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

March UV Index in Cork

As March arrives in Cork, Ireland, residents can expect a noticeable shift in the UV Index, which climbs to 4, marking the start of the moderate exposure category. This is a significant increase compared to the previous months, where January and February offered low UV levels of 1 and 2, respectively, allowing for burn times of 45 minutes. Now, with the shorter burn time of 30 minutes, it’s important to be mindful of sun protection, especially during midday hours. Looking ahead, the UV Index will continue to rise through April and into the warmer months, underscoring a clear trend towards higher UV exposure as spring unfolds. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, visit Cork UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Cork for March

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Cork in March, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875421
Data source: Cork March UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

March Sunshine in Cork

As March unfolds in Cork, Ireland, the transition from winter to spring becomes beautifully apparent with a significant increase in sunshine hours. March boasts an impressive 188 hours of sunlight, marking a notable rise from February's 133 hours. This trend symbolizes the awakening of nature, inviting residents to bask in the longer, brighter days ahead. As the month progresses, anticipation builds for even sunnier April, which typically welcomes a generous 299 hours of sunlight. The gradual climb in daylight not only enhances the charm of the city but also energizes its vibrant community, setting the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and blooming landscapes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Cork: March Highlighted

The March sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Cork experiences direct sunlight during the month of March, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of March with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85h133h188h299h381h370h378h341h285h225h126h97h
Data source: Cork March Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Cork During March

March in Cork, Ireland, sees a notable dip in sunny weather, with a likelihood of only 20% compared to January's 31% and February's 22%. This trend indicates a transition toward spring; however, March does not bring the sun most might hope for. Instead, it's only in April, when the chance of sunshine jumps to 44%, that the brightness begins to make a more substantial comeback. As the seasons change, it's clear that while March may feel dreary, the promise of sunnier days lies just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in March in Cork

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Cork throughout the year, with March highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Cork experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec31%22%20%44%28%23%28%25%19%20%28%19%
Data source: Cork March chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Cork in March

As winter fades into spring, March in Cork, Ireland marks a delightful increase in daylight, with the sun gracing the sky for 11 hours. This is a significant leap from the 9 hours of February, signaling a shift towards longer, brighter days that invigorate the landscape. The gradual transition continues as April brings an additional 2 hours of sunlight, leading into the vibrant months of May and June, where daylight peaks at an impressive 16 hours. This trend not only highlights the arrival of spring but also sets the stage for the lush beauty of summer, inviting residents and visitors alike to bask in the warmth and brightness that each passing month brings. As daylight increases, so does the promise of longer evenings filled with outdoor adventures.

Average Daylight Hours in Cork for March

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Cork throughout the year, with March highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 20m9h 56m11h 55m13h 55m15h 41m16h 36m16h 7m14h 32m12h 35m10h 35m8h 47m7h 49m
Data source: Cork daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

March Winds in Cork

In Cork, Ireland, the month of March sees an average wind speed of 4.1 m/s (9 mph), a slight dip from the breezy heights of February at 5.5 m/s (12 mph). This change marks a transition from the blustery nature of early spring as winter begins to wane. While January starts off with a calm average of 3.8 m/s (9 mph), March holds steady with winds that showcase the region's characteristic freshness. As we look towards April, the winds ease further to 3.4 m/s (8 mph), highlighting a gentle shift. Overall, March acts as a bridge between the stronger gusts of winter and the milder breezes to come, encapsulating the unpredictable charm of Irish weather.

Average March Wind Speed in Cork

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Cork, with values for each month shown alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how March's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.85.54.1 m/s3.43.93.42.93.33.14.13.74.6
Data source: Cork March wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How March Weather in Cork Compares to Other Months

The weather in Cork changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of March's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Cork and find detailed weather information for every month.

When comparing the weather in March and January, we can see some notable differences. March typically sees slightly higher temperatures with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average temperature of 7°C (44°F), peaking at a maximum of 16°C (61°F). In contrast, January has a little warmer minimum at -5°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), with a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Additionally, March experiences more precipitation, with 83 mm (3.3 in) spread over 16 days, compared to January's 55 mm (2.2 in) over just 10 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, with January at 83% and March slightly higher at 84%. For more details on January weather specifically, you can check Cork weather in January.

March tends to be slightly cooler than February, with a minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) compared to February's minimum of -2°C (28°F). However, both months share the same average temperature of 7°C (44°F). In March, temperatures can reach a maximum of 16°C (61°F), which is warmer than February’s maximum of 13°C (56°F). In terms of precipitation, March receives 83 mm (3.3 in) over 16 days, slightly less than February's 101 mm (4.0 in) across 15 days, making March a bit drier overall. Humidity levels remain similar, with March at 84% and February slightly higher at 85%. For more detailed information, you can check Cork weather in February.

March and April present a gradual transition in weather, with April typically being slightly milder. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average of 7°C (44°F). This month also sees higher precipitation levels, with 83 mm (3.3 in) recorded over 16 days. In contrast, April offers a warmer climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). Rainfall decreases to 72 mm (2.8 in) over just 11 days, maintaining a consistent humidity level of 84%. For more insights into the weather specifics, you can check Cork weather in April.

In comparing the weather between March and May, significant differences become evident. March typically experiences colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -6°C (21°F) and a maximum reaching only 16°C (61°F), while May sees a more pleasant range, with temperatures starting at 0°C (31°F) and peaking at 23°C (74°F). Although both months have a high humidity level of 84%, March tends to be wetter, with precipitation of 83 mm (3.3 in) over 16 days compared to May’s 74 mm (2.9 in) spread across 12 days. For those interested in exploring the weather specifics in May, you can find more details here: Cork weather in May.

March presents a transitionary climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to an average of 7°C (44°F), peaking at a mild 16°C (61°F). This month is characterized by frequent rainfall, accumulating 83 mm (3.3 in) over 16 days, and a high humidity of 84% that often makes the air feel cooler.

In contrast, June experiences more agreeable weather, marked by a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), reaching a maximum of 27°C (80°F). Precipitation decreases to 60 mm (2.4 in) spread over 11 days, while humidity remains slightly elevated at 85%. The warmer temperatures and reduced rainfall in June create a significantly different atmosphere compared to March, making it a more pleasant month overall. For more details on specific weather patterns, you can explore Cork weather in June.

In March, the weather is considerably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a mild 16°C (61°F) during the day. The month experiences an average temperature of 7°C (44°F) and sees a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 16 days, along with a high humidity level of 84%.

In contrast, July brings warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and peaking at 26°C (79°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). This month has less rainfall, with 63 mm (2.5 in) spread over 12 days, and a similar humidity level of 85%. For a closer look at July's weather, you can check Cork weather in July.

March weather is characterized by a chilly start, with minimum temperatures dipping down to -6°C (21°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F). In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). Both months experience similar levels of humidity at 84%, though March has a notable increase in precipitation over 16 days at 83 mm (3.3 in), compared to August's slightly higher rainfall of 89 mm (3.5 in) across 15 days. If you're interested in more details about the weather during August, you can check out Cork weather in August.

March and September present contrasting weather profiles. In March, the temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a mild max of 16°C (61°F), with an average temperature hovering around 7°C (44°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, with about 83 mm (3.3 in) falling over 16 days, and humidity levels remain high at 84%. In contrast, September enjoys a more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (76°F), averaging around 13°C (57°F). The precipitation decreases to 69 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days, with humidity slightly higher at 85%. For more insights on September weather, check out Cork weather in September.

March and October present distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition between seasons. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average of 7°C (44°F). The month experiences around 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, October sees slightly milder temperatures, with minimums around 0°C (33°F) and maximums reaching 18°C (64°F), resulting in an average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 95 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, with humidity levels remaining high at 86%. For more specific details, you can check Cork weather in October.

March and November exhibit comparable humidity levels at 84%, but their temperatures reflect the transition from winter to autumn. In March, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a mild 16°C (61°F) during the day, while November has slightly warmer averages with temperatures varying from -1°C (30°F) to 15°C (59°F). Both months experience considerable precipitation, with March receiving 83 mm (3.3 in) over 16 days, slightly more than November's 79 mm (3.1 in) across 13 days. As the seasons shift, March presents a more pronounced chill compared to the relatively mild conditions of November. For a closer look at the specific weather patterns in November, check out Cork weather in November.

In March, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (44°F). The month sees about 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, December features slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while maintaining the same average of 7°C (45°F). December also experiences a higher total precipitation of 103 mm (4.1 in) over 16 days and a similar humidity level of 83%. For more detailed insights on the weather during this month, visit Cork weather in December.

Compare Cork's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From March Weather in Cork

As March arrives in Cork, it ushers in a noticeable shift in weather patterns compared to the colder winter months. While temperatures gradually climb, bringing a welcome hint of spring, the chilly nights can still dip to near-freezing levels. Precipitation remains frequent, with rain gracing more than half of the month, contributing to a notably high humidity that lingers in the air. This transitional period often brings a mix of crisp days and rainy spells, setting the stage for the vibrant growth of spring. For those seeking deeper insights into Cork's weather throughout the year, visit Cork Climate.