Farming Forecast: 25th–31st August 2025

Farmers should prepare for a week of wetter and cooler conditions across Ireland, according to Met Éireann in its latest farming commentary.

Rainfall will increase nationwide, with totals reaching up to 80mm in parts of the west and 20–30mm further east over the next seven days.

Temperatures:
Air temperatures will fall to 1–2°C below seasonal norms, with soil temperatures also dropping slightly, though remaining above average.

Sunshine & Rain:
The week will feature variable sunshine, with sunny spells interspersed with showers and longer periods of rain. Eastern regions can expect above-normal sunshine, while western areas are likely to be duller and wetter.

Drying & Field Work:
Drying conditions will be poor, limiting opportunities for spreading and fieldwork. Current soils are dry and trafficable, with soil moisture deficits (SMDs) ranging from 16–60mm, driest in the east and south. Unsettled conditions will reduce SMDs, and soils in the west and southwest could approach saturation or waterlogging in poorly drained areas.

Spraying Opportunities:
Limited opportunities for spraying exist, with some potential on Tuesday, but outbreaks of rain will restrict activity for much of the week.

Blight Advisory:
A blight advisory is in effect from Thursday afternoon (28th Aug) to Friday evening (29th Aug). Conditions will be favourable for the spread of potato blight across most of the country. Vigilance and preventative spraying where possible are advised.