Sun in Short Supply as Ireland Endures Dull Week

Ireland has experienced a notably dull week, with sunshine levels falling significantly below average across the country, according to the latest figures from Met Éireann.

The lowest sunshine totals were recorded in the west and northwest, where grey skies dominated. Ireland West Airport in Co. Mayo logged just 9.3 hours of sunshine over the past seven days—just 32% of the typical amount for this time of year. Northern counties also saw poor sunshine totals, contributing to what has been a persistently gloomy spell despite relatively dry conditions.

Even in the sunniest parts of the country, figures remained below average. Cork Airport in the south recorded the highest sunshine total at 30.5 hours, which still amounted to just 82% of the expected norm.

The lack of sunshine comes in contrast to otherwise favourable rainfall conditions. The past week was drier or much drier than normal nationwide, with totals ranging from only 0.3mm at Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford to 11.3mm at Malin Head, Co. Donegal—just 2% to 58% of the usual weekly average.

Despite the dull conditions, temperatures have remained slightly above average. Mean air temperatures over the week ranged from 15.1°C to 17.5°C—up to 1.9°C above normal. Soil temperatures also remain elevated, between 16.2°C and 19.4°C, well above seasonal norms.

Looking ahead, Met Éireann forecasts a mixed week of weather, with scattered rain, drizzle, and some dry spells, particularly from Thursday afternoon through to Saturday evening. Rainfall is expected to vary widely, from as little as 7mm in parts of the south to as much as 76mm in the northwest—less than half the norm in some areas and more than double in others.

However, brighter skies may remain elusive. Sunshine amounts in the coming week are expected to be near or below normal, with persistent cloud cover likely to continue over much of the country.