Ireland Hit by Strongest Winds in Over Three Months

Ireland was battered by its strongest winds in over three months on Monday evening and night, as an Atlantic system brought powerful gusts and heavy rain across the country.

The most extreme winds were recorded at Mace Head in Galway, where gusts reached 100 km/h — the highest wind speed recorded in Ireland since February 20th, when Valentia experienced a 109 km/h gust.

The return of such intense winds marks a notable shift after a relatively calmer spring. In addition to Mace Head, several other western locations reported near-gale force gusts in the past hour:

Belmullet, Co. Mayo: 99 km/h
Newport, Co. Mayo: 95 km/h
Knock, Co. Mayo & Valentia, Co. Kerry: 94 km/h
Claremorris, Co. Mayo: 92 km/h

Met Éireann has issued a warning in advance of the system, cautioning of strong southerly winds and heavy downpours, especially in western counties.

Rainfall totals in the west were forecast to reach up to 20mm, leading to a risk of localised flooding, especially during the warning period until 10:00 PM. Eastern regions, including East Munster and Leinster, will see lighter but still persistent rain, with totals between 5mm and 10mm.

The combination of strong winds and intense rain led to hazardous travel conditions, with reduced visibility, surface water on roads, and debris posing challenges for motorists and pedestrians alike.

Monday’s weather marked the most severe wind event in Ireland since winter, signalling a dramatic turn in conditions.