Why we don´t complain about the rain in March (unless we have visitors).

If you are lucky enough to live in the Marina Alta, North Costa Blanca, you will know that the past few weeks have been unusually wet. March is normally the beginning of warmer temperatures, with highs of around 19C and lows of 9C and an average 5 or 6 days of rain… making this March definitely, NOT average. Most of us have been asked the question "is it always like this?" by those visiting the area in recent weeks. 

For us residents however, this rain has been longed for and it is celebrated! Throughout 2024, and three years prior to that, the water levels were so low, that the government classified this area in “Sequía” (drought). The Valencian Community, “Agua Embalsada” (water level) is now at 50.82%. This compared to only 40% at the same time last year and an average for the last ten years of 47%. 

The beautiful Guadalest Reservoir

Last year, in the Vall del Pop, aka the Jalon Valley, the vineyards produced no grapes and farmers had to transport grapes from further afield, to the bodegas to make our famous, award winning wines. We received regular reminders from the town hall about saving water and warnings not to break the hosepipe ban or use irrigation systems on gardens. Some villages were subject to water cuts and there was talk of more.

It has to be said, that this rainy weather is not unheard of and there can be prolonged spells of wet weather in Spring. Rain is not welcome when you are hosting family and friends, who come hoping to bask in the sunshine. However, we should celebrate it. The Spring rain replenishes water to aid healthy ecosystems and the Valley is looking especially beautiful today as we enjoy some respite from the rain. The vineyards are beginning to show signs of life, the Valley is a lush green and the River Gorgos, normally no more than a trickle over a dry river bed, is full and flowing, boosting the wild flowers and birdlife. 

Furthermore, if the forecast is right, there´s still more rainfall to come.  The three storms in March ( so far!), Jana, Konrad and Laurence, have perhaps spoiled some of our best laid plans but we will be thankful, later in the year. 

What´s more, we know that warmer, sunnier weather is only just around the corner!