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Shannon Emerges as Ireland’s Warmest Spot

Shannon_Airport
Shannon Airport, County Clare. Credit Pat Flynn / The Clare Herald

Despite a wetter-than-usual week for much of Ireland, Shannon Airport in County Clare stood out as the nation’s warmest location, recording a mean air temperature of 16°C, the highest in the country over the past seven days.

This temperature marks a significant departure from the seasonal norm, running 2.4°C above average.

A Wet Week for Most

According to Met Éireann, rainfall levels across the country surged to well above average, particularly in eastern regions. Casement Aerodrome in Dublin received a hefty 67mm, a staggering 463% of its normal amount. In contrast, parts of the west experienced more variability in precipitation, with Gurteen in County Tipperary recording the lowest total at just 8.4mm.

The upcoming week promises a break from the soggy conditions, with drier-than-normal weather expected nationwide. Most areas will see less than 10mm of rain—less than half the usual amount for this time of year. Some localised showers may still occur, particularly along southern and Atlantic coastal counties.

Temperatures Rising

In addition to Shannon’s standout warmth, mean air temperatures were consistently above average nationwide, ranging from 14.4°C to 16°C. Soil temperatures also reflected the warming trend, measuring between 15.1°C and 17°C, up to 2.9°C above normal. This trend is expected to continue, with forecast mean air temperatures climbing to 15°C to 19°C in the coming week—3 to 5 degrees above average.
Sunshine Making a Comeback

While sunshine levels lagged behind in some western areas—Knock Airport in Mayo recorded just 17.7 hours, half its usual total—other regions fared better. Dublin Airport saw 41.7 hours of sunshine, slightly above the norm. The outlook for the week ahead is more promising, with average to above-average sunshine expected across the country.

Good Outlook for Agriculture

The coming week looks favourable for agriculture, particularly for drying and spraying. With mostly dry and sunny days, drying conditions will be good, especially by Thursday and Friday, away from isolated showers. Spraying conditions are also expected to be largely suitable, with light to moderate breezes.

Soil moisture conditions remain challenging in the north, where soils are still saturated or near saturation. However, conditions improve heading south, with soil moisture deficits (SMDs) between 15 and 40mm, and the driest areas near the southern coasts. SMDs are projected to rise gradually, especially across northern and southern parts, aiding fieldwork and growth.

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