Sunshine levels 60 pc below average in west

The past week has been notably dull across the country, with sunshine totals well below seasonal norms.

The lowest sunshine duration was recorded at Knock/Ireland West Airport, Co. Mayo with just 38 hours (38% of average), while Casement Aerodrome, Co. Dublin fared slightly better with 32.1 hours (80% of average), according to Met Éireann in its latest farming forecast.

Although the upcoming week will bring some brighter intervals, overall sunshine levels are forecast to remain below average as unsettled Atlantic weather continues to dominate.

There will be occasional sunny spells, particularly between showers later on Sunday and again during the early part of Monday, offering brief but welcome breaks from the cloud cover. However, these sunny moments will be the exception rather than the rule, as frequent bands of rain and showers limit overall sunshine hours.

Rainfall: Persistent Wet Weather Offsetting Sunny Intervals

Rainfall over the past seven days has been significantly above normal for the time of year. The Midlands recorded the heaviest totals, with Mullingar, Co. Westmeath logging 56.4mm— 348% of the long-term average. Southern areas were closer to average, with Roches Point, Co. Cork receiving 16.2mm (112% of average).

Further spells of rain and showers are expected throughout the coming week, driven by active Atlantic systems. Accumulations are likely to range from 1.5 to 2.5 times the seasonal norm, with the most persistent rain anticipated in the west and northwest. These conditions will continue to compete with any developing sunshine, limiting the potential for prolonged brightness.

Temperatures: Cooler Days Ahead Despite Sunny Breaks

Last week’s temperatures were above normal, ranging from 12.1°C in Knock to 14.7°C in Shannon and Oak Park—up to 2.2°C above average. Soil temperatures were also elevated, between 13.9°C and 16.1°C.

Looking ahead, mean air temperatures are forecast to dip slightly below average, ranging from 10°C to 12°C, despite brief sunny spells. Soil temperatures will remain somewhat elevated due to residual warmth and the generally mild air mass.

Agricultural Outlook: Sunshine a Scarce Asset

• Drying Conditions: Poor overall, though sunshine between showers—particularly Sunday evening and early Monday—may allow for brief drying windows.
• Spraying: Limited opportunities due to showery and breezy conditions. Sunday and early Monday provide the best chance, where sunshine may coincide with temporary calm periods.
• Field Conditions: Soil moisture deficits (SMDs) range from 20 to 50mm in the south and southeast, with some restriction to growth. In contrast, parts of the north midlands and northwest are approaching saturation, with SMDs between 3mm and 10mm. With further rainfall and limited sunshine, SMDs will continue to decline across much of the country, while southern deficits may reduce slightly.

Summary:
While the week ahead will be marked by persistent unsettled conditions, occasional sunny spells will provide temporary relief, especially in eastern and southern areas. However, for those hoping for prolonged sunshine, conditions will remain generally cloudy and wetter than average, keeping total sunshine hours below seasonal norms.