South and East Stay Dry as North and West Soak Up the Rain

Rainfall over the past week has varied sharply across the country, according to the latest figures from Met Éireann.

While the north and west were hit with well above average rainfall, much of the south and east remained relatively dry. Claremorris, Co. Mayo recorded the highest total at 42.8mm — two and a half times its normal level. Meanwhile, Oak Park in Co. Carlow saw just 4.3mm, a mere 31% of its usual amount.

Looking ahead, a mix of sunshine and showers is on the cards, with the driest conditions expected along the south coast. Rainfall totals are forecast to reach 25–30mm in the northwest, and between 5–20mm elsewhere.

Temperatures last week were warmer than usual across the country. The east midlands recorded the highest mean air temperature at 18.1°C, more than 3 degrees above average. Soil temperatures also remained high nationwide, ranging between 15.8°C and 19.2°C. However, slightly cooler conditions are expected this week, though soil temperatures are likely to stay above seasonal norms.

Sunshine was in short supply, especially in the southwest. Valentia Observatory in Co. Kerry managed just 5.6 hours all week — just 16% of its average. Casement Aerodrome in Dublin fared better with 24.8 hours, though still below normal. Brighter conditions are expected to develop by midweek.

Drying conditions will be favourable early in the week between showers, but will deteriorate from Thursday as more unsettled weather moves in.