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2012 the second wettest year

2012 was the second wettest year in the UK since records began in 1910, according to provisional statistics from the Met Office. It is just a few millimetres short of the record set in 2000.

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UK experiencing more 'extreme' rainfall

The Met Office has disclosed preliminary evidence suggesting the UK could be experiencing more intense downpours than in the past. Professor Julia Slingo, chief scientist at the Met Office, said:

The trend towards more extreme rainfall events is one we are seeing around the world, in countries such as India and China, and now potentially here in the UK.

Much more research is needed to understand more about the causes and potential implications.

It is essential we look at how this may impact our rainfall patterns going forward over the next decade and beyond, so we can advise on the frequency of extreme weather in the future and the potential for more surface and river flooding.

– Professor Julia Slingo, chief scientist, met office

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