The soggy end to last year made 2002 much wetter than usual, according to The Argus's weatherman Ken Woodhams.
Total rainfall at his Hove weather station was 40.57in, almost 10in more than average.
It was the second wettest year since 1987, with only 2000, with its exceptional autumn downfalls, beating it.
November was the wettest month, with 6.8in of rain, and the wettest day was June 5, when 1.43in fell.
The longest spell without rain was 26 days in March and April. April was the driest month, with only 1.1in of rain.
Last year was also the warmest since 1995, with a mean temperature of 11.9C (53.4F).
The hottest days were July 28 and 29, when the temperature reached 26C (79F).
The chilliest day was January 1, when the night time reading was minus 3C (27F).
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