Dull Days Dominate as Sunshine Falls Short

Ireland experienced a drier-than-normal week, particularly in southern counties, according to Met Éireann’s latest data.

Most weather stations recorded just 60–80% of their average rainfall for the week, with Roches Point, Co. Cork reporting only 3.3mm, just 19% of its normal total. The wettest spot was Belmullet, Co. Mayo, which saw 22.3mm of rain, close to average for the region.

The week ahead will bring a mix of dry spells and occasional light rain or showers. However, rainfall totals are expected to remain well below average nationwide, with many areas likely to see just 35% of normal precipitation.

Temperatures held up well over the past week, with mean air temperatures ranging from 14.7°C at Knock to 17.4°C at Roches Point, between 0.1°C below and 1.9°C above seasonal norms. Soil temperatures were also well above average, ranging from 15.9°C in the north to 20°C in the south. These elevated soil temperatures, up to 4.2°C above normal, will persist into next week.

It was a dull week for many, especially in the northwest where Knock recorded just 14.3 hours of sunshine (50% of normal). Conditions were brighter in the south, with Cork Airport enjoying 40 hours of sunshine, 8% above average.

Looking ahead, sunshine amounts are expected to return to near normal levels as more frequent sunny spells break through the mixed weather.