Ground Conditions Remain Challenging Despite Mixed Weather

Ground conditions remain mixed across the country, with parts of the west and northeast nearing saturation following above-average rainfall last week, according to Met Éireann.

Soil moisture deficits (SMDs) on well and moderately drained soils are close to capacity in some western and northeastern areas, while poorly drained soils in those regions are already waterlogged. This could pose ongoing difficulties for farmers and landowners, particularly where ground access and grass growth are concerned.

Elsewhere in the country, SMDs currently range between 20mm and 50mm across all soil types, which may cause some restriction to growth. These levels are expected to remain largely unchanged over the coming week in southern and eastern areas, where rainfall has been below average.

Claremorris in Co. Mayo recorded the highest rainfall over the past week, with 38.8mm — 227% of its average. In contrast, Oak Park in Co. Carlow saw just 4.3mm, or 31% of its usual level. This disparity has contributed to very different field conditions across regions.

Looking ahead, while scattered showers are forecast — especially in the northwest — much of the south and east is expected to remain relatively dry, which may help ease pressure on soils in those areas. Rainfall accumulations are forecast to range between 25 to 30mm in the northwest and between 5 to 20mm elsewhere, with the driest conditions along the south coast.

Meanwhile, mean soil temperatures continue to trend above average, ranging between 16.6°C and 19.1°C last week — 1.1°C to 3.3°C higher than normal. Although mean air temperatures are expected to dip slightly over the coming days, soil temperatures are likely to stay elevated for the time of year.

Drying conditions are expected to be favourable in many areas outside of showers through midweek, but are likely to deteriorate again by the weekend as more unsettled weather arrives. Spraying opportunities will be similarly limited.

Met Éireann notes that while some fluctuation in soil moisture levels is likely in the west and north, a slight improvement is possible by week’s end. However, persistent growth restrictions are expected to continue elsewhere due to current deficits.