Mount Toubkal Weather in March
March heralds the transition from the deep winter to early spring on Mount Toubkal, the majestic peak in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. Climbers and trekkers who ventured onto its slopes in March 2023 experienced a dynamic weather pattern, as revealed by the meteorological data.
Temperature Insights
Throughout March 2023, the temperature on Mount Toubkal showed a gradual increase, indicative of the approaching spring. Despite this, temperatures frequently dipped below freezing, especially at night with lows around -10 degrees Celsius, and daytime highs remained modest, rarely climbing above 5 degrees Celsius. This variability meant that climbers needed to be prepared for cold snaps, with insulated gear remaining a necessity.
Precipitation Patterns
The data for March 2023 suggests that precipitation was less frequent than in the winter months, yet when it occurred, it came down heavily. The data shows sharp peaks in precipitation, indicating potential heavy snow or rain showers. Such events would have required waterproof and warm clothing to maintain dryness and warmth.
Worth knowing before you plan around the spring thaw: over 2017 to 2025, March is the snowiest month of the year at the summit, with twelve days of snowfall on average — more than February or January. The valley warms while the top of the mountain is still collecting snow.
Cloud Cover and Humidity
The cloud cover in March 2023 was significant, with many days experiencing substantial cloudiness, correlating with the peaks in precipitation. The relative humidity remained high, often above 60%, adding a chill to the air and making moisture-wicking layers an essential part of a climber’s attire.
Wind Activity
Winds on Mount Toubkal in March 2023 were variable, with some days seeing gusts reach high speeds, possibly impacting climbing conditions and increasing the risk of hypothermia. Adequate wind protection gear, such as shell layers, was crucial for climbers facing these gusty conditions.
March 2023 on Mount Toubkal was characterized by cold temperatures, notable precipitation events, considerable cloud cover, and variable winds. Climbers tackling the mountain during this month would have needed to prepare for winter conditions, despite the occasional signs of spring. The data underscores the importance of a versatile and adaptable approach to climbing Mount Toubkal in early spring.
Planning to climb in March? Read can you climb Toubkal in winter for what the season demands, see the Toubkal winter climb, or start with the full guide to climbing Mount Toubkal.
At the summit in March · 2017–2025 average
- Day
- -2°C
- Night
- -10°C
- Feels like
- -10°C
- Frost nights
- 31
- Days without thaw
- 21
- Snowfall
- 12 days · 23 cm
- Gusts over 60 km/h
- 55% of days
- Favourable days
- 15%
Figures are nine-year averages for 2017 to 2025 at the summit. Toubkal has no permanent weather station, so these are reanalysis data modelled at 31.04°N / 7.90°W, 4,131 m. They are orders of magnitude rather than readings, and a given day can depart from them sharply — particularly the wind on the ridges. Always check a current forecast and speak to a local guide before setting out.
