March Weather in Leiden, Netherlands

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In March, Leiden, Netherlands experiences a dynamic transition as winter slowly gives way to spring. With average temperatures hovering around 7°C (44°F), daily highs can reach up to 18°C (65°F), providing a refreshing chill complemented by the potential for colder evenings dropping to a brisk -7°C (20°F). Rainfall is not uncommon, with 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days, leading to a humid atmosphere where humidity levels average a notable 86%. This blend of wet conditions and fluctuating temperatures invites both locals and visitors to appreciate the beauty of a city emerging from its winter slumber.

March Temperature in Leiden

In March, temperatures in Leiden, Netherlands, begin to shed the chill of winter, marking a transition into spring. The month starts with a minimum temperature of -7°C (20°F), hinting at lingering frosts, but quickly warms up to an average of 7°C (44°F) and peaks at a pleasant 18°C (65°F). This gradual rise in temperatures is indicative of the seasonal shift, as the city vacillates between the remnants of winter and the promise of milder days ahead. With each passing day, residents and visitors alike can expect to witness a lively burst of early blooms and a welcoming atmosphere that heralds the arrival of spring.

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

The chart illustrates March temperature patterns in Leiden, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Leiden, March typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414144485562646560554844
Data source: Temperature data for Leiden generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

March Precipitation in Leiden

In March, Leiden, Netherlands, experiences a notable transition in precipitation patterns, with 71 mm (2.8 in) of rainfall over the month, closely mirroring February's 72 mm (2.8 in). This consistent rainfall occurs over approximately 14 days, suggesting a relatively wet start to spring as the region shakes off winter's chill. The precipitation volume dips significantly in April, dropping to 43 mm (1.7 in), highlighting a trend towards drier conditions as the season progresses. This steady rainfall in March serves as a reminder of the Netherlands' characteristic climate, where water is both a blessing and a defining feature, paving the way for the blooming beauty of spring.

March Precipitation Trends in Leiden

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Leiden, 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. In Leiden, March typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec66727143587068959612070110
Data source: Precipitation data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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March Humidity in Leiden

As March unfolds in Leiden, the atmosphere remains moderately humid, with levels at 86%—slightly lower than the consistent 87% seen in both January and February. This gradual decline hints at the impending arrival of spring, as humidity typically eases toward 85% in April and further into the warmer months. Notably, during the transition through the seasons, the trend shows a gradual decrease in humidity, reaching a low of 78% in August. Yet, as autumn approaches, the humidity levels tend to rise again, peaking at 87% by November. This cyclical pattern ensures that Leiden experiences a rich variety of atmospheric conditions throughout the year, blending humid winter months with the drier warmth of summer.

March Average Humidity in Leiden

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Leiden, with March’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In March, average humidity in Leiden is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%87%86%85%84%82%80%78%83%86%87%86%
Data source: Humidity data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

March UV Index in Leiden

As March unfolds in Leiden, Netherlands, the UV Index sees a noticeable increase, rising to 4 and entering the moderate exposure category. This marks a transition from the low levels of January and February, where the UV Index sat at 1 and 2, allowing for longer outdoor enjoyment without the worries of sunburn—up to 45 minutes of exposure. However, with March’s UV Index, the burn time reduces to 30 minutes, indicating that while the sun's intensity is still relatively moderate, it's essential to take precautions during extended outdoor activities. This upward trend continues into April, hinting at the arrival of sunnier days ahead. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, visit Leiden UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Leiden for March

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Leiden 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. In March, the maximum UV index in Leiden typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Leiden 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 Leiden

In March, Leiden, Netherlands, begins to bask in the warmth of spring, as daylight hours surge to an impressive 290 hours. This marks a significant leap from the 202 hours of sunlight in February, signaling the end of winter’s grip. As the days grow longer and brighter, the anticipation of blooming flowers and vibrant outdoor activities replaces the cold, gray skies of earlier months. The momentum continues into April and May, where sunshine further flourishes, reaching a peak of 419 hours in May. This delightful trend not only uplifts the spirits of residents but also invites a blossoming of activities and social gatherings, making March a pivotal time for the rejuvenation of life in Leiden.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Leiden: March Highlighted

The March sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Leiden 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec117h202h290h367h419h422h431h402h331h245h199h142h
Data source: Leiden March Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Leiden During March

As March unfolds in Leiden, the likelihood of sunny weather begins to brighten the landscape, with a 36% chance of sunshine—a significant increase from the 27% in February. This upward trend continues into the spring months, heralding the arrival of warmer days ahead. Compared to the winter months, where the sun makes a rare appearance, March represents a refreshing shift towards more vibrant days. As nature awakens from its slumber, the skies start to clear, paving the way for more frequent sunny spells. This gradual rise in sunshine not only sets the stage for April's promising 42% chance but also boosts the spirits of residents and visitors alike, marking the transition into a more luminous season.

Percentage of Sunny Days in March in Leiden

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Leiden 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 Leiden experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec19%28%36%42%35%40%36%35%32%28%23%18%
Data source: Leiden March chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Leiden in March

As March unfolds in Leiden, Netherlands, the days begin to stretch notably with 11 hours of daylight—a significant increase from the 9 hours noted in February. This gradual expansion of sunlight not only brightens the city but also signals the shift towards vibrant spring, where daylight continues to extend, reaching 13 hours in April and peaking at 16 hours during the height of summer. The contrast with the shorter months of winter, where January and December offer only 8 and 7 hours of daylight respectively, highlights the uplifting trend of increasing light as the year progresses. March is thus a month of renewal, with each passing day inviting more sunshine and the anticipation of warmer, longer days ahead.

Average Daylight Hours in Leiden for March

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Leiden throughout the year, with March highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 18m9h 55m11h 54m13h 57m15h 44m16h 40m16h 10m14h 33m12h 36m10h 34m8h 45m7h 46m
Data source: Leiden daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

March Winds in Leiden

As March unfolds in Leiden, the winds whisper softly at an average speed of 5.6 m/s (13 mph), slightly cooler than the preceding months of January and February. This gentle breeziness signals a gradual transition towards spring, as wind speeds will continue to ease into April, where they dip to 5.4 m/s (12 mph). Notably, March’s winds are part of a broader trend where the gusts tend to mellow in the warmer months, with an overall decline leading into early summer. Yet, come October, a more invigorating 6.3 m/s (14 mph) surge returns, reminding us of the cycle of nature. This ebb and flow of wind speed not only paints a vivid picture of seasonal change but also invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the refreshing air of spring in this charming Dutch city.

Average March Wind Speed in Leiden

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Leiden, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.95.95.6 m/s5.45.24.04.65.44.36.35.15.7
Data source: Leiden March wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How March Weather in Leiden Compares to Other Months

Weather in Leiden varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares March’s weather to other months in Leiden, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

March tends to be milder than January, with average temperatures rising from January's 5°C (42°F) to a more pleasant 7°C (44°F) by March. While both months experience similar levels of precipitation, March sees a slight increase at 71 mm (2.8 in) compared to January's 66 mm (2.6 in), with rain occurring on about 14 days in both months. However, January's humidity is slightly lower at 87%, compared to March's 86%. For more detailed insights into January weather, you can visit Leiden weather in January.

In comparing the weather of March and February, March typically experiences slightly milder conditions. The average temperature in March rises to 7°C (44°F), compared to February's 5°C (42°F), while max temperatures also see a minor increase, reaching up to 18°C (65°F) in March compared to February's 16°C (60°F). Precipitation levels are nearly identical, with March recording 71 mm (2.8 in) over 14 days, just slightly more than February's 72 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days. Humidity remains relatively stable, with March at 86% and February at 87%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Leiden weather in February.

March weather tends to be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F). It's relatively wet as well, with an average precipitation of 71 mm (2.8 in) over 14 days and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, April marks a noticeable shift towards warmer weather, featuring temperatures from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a much warmer maximum of 24°C (75°F). The month is drier, with only 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, and humidity remains similar at 85%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Leiden weather in April.

March and May exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a pleasant maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 7°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over 14 days and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, May sees a milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and peaking at 27°C (80°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). Precipitation decreases to 58 mm (2.3 in) over 11 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Leiden weather in May.

March weather in Leiden is characterized by chilly temperatures, with a minimum dipping to -7°C (20°F) and an average reaching 7°C (44°F). Precipitation is frequent, occurring over 14 days, and the humidity remains high at 86%. In contrast, June brings significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 17°C (62°F). Although precipitation remains similar at 70 mm (2.8 in), it occurs over just 10 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 81%. For more details, check out Leiden weather in June.

In March, the weather is markedly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F). It tends to be quite humid with an 86% humidity level and around 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days. In contrast, July brings warmer conditions, featuring temperatures from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). The precipitation in July is slightly lower at 68 mm (2.7 in), occurring over 13 days, and humidity levels drop to about 80%. For those interested in learning more about July weather specifically, visit Leiden weather in July.

March and August exhibit significantly different weather patterns, reflecting the transition from winter to summer. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a mild maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of around 7°C (44°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over about 14 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. In stark contrast, August enjoys warmer temperatures, with minimums around 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). The month sees slightly higher precipitation at 95 mm (3.7 in) across 15 days, but with lower humidity at 78%. For a closer look at the specific conditions in August, visit Leiden weather in August.

March and September showcase contrasting weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a chilly -7°C (20°F) at night to a comfortable 18°C (65°F) during the day, with an average of 7°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over about 14 days, and high humidity at 86%, resulting in a brisk, sometimes damp atmosphere.

In contrast, September offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a mild 8°C (46°F) and peaking at 27°C (81°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). Although it sees slightly more precipitation at 96 mm (3.8 in) over 13 days, the humidity is marginally lower at 83%, contributing to a more pleasant early autumn feel. For more insights, you can check out Leiden weather in September.

In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a mild maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (44°F). This month experiences about 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 14 days, while humidity remains consistently high at 86%. In contrast, October brings slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), and an average of 13°C (56°F). Rainfall increases to 120 mm (4.7 in) spread over 17 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 86%. For more details, you can check Leiden weather in October.

March and November both exhibit relatively mild temperatures, but their characteristics differ notably. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 7°C (44°F). The month sees around 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, November offers a slightly warmer temperature range with a minimum of 1°C (33°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation levels are similar at 70 mm (2.8 in), but it extends over 15 days, leading to an almost comparable humidity of 87%. For more detailed information on the weather in this month, you can check Leiden weather in November.

March and December present quite different weather experiences. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (44°F). This month sees about 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 14 days, maintaining a consistent humidity of 86%. In contrast, December offers slightly milder weather, with temperatures ranging from -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). However, it is wetter than March, featuring 110 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation spread across 18 days, also with the same humidity level of 86%. For more detailed insights into December weather, check out Leiden weather in December.

Compare Leiden's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From March Weather in Leiden

March in Leiden marks a subtle transition as winter gives way to spring, bringing a noticeable shift in weather patterns. Temperatures begin to rise, offering a refreshing contrast to the chill of preceding months, though nights can still dip into the lower range. With increased humidity levels and regular rainfall, the month can feel quite damp, especially with an average of 14 precipitation days. While the days grow longer and offer fleeting glimpses of warmer weather, it's essential to be prepared for the cool breezes that can still linger. Overall, March weather captivates with its promise of renewal but serves as a reminder that winter is not quite over. For more details on the seasonal shifts, visit Leiden Climate.