Ireland Set for Wetter Week Ahead After Dry Spell

The past week in Ireland was notably drier than usual across the country, with rainfall amounts significantly below normal levels.

The lowest rainfall was recorded at Roches Point, Co. Cork, where only 0.6mm fell, just 4 percent of the typical amount for this period. Valentia, Co. Kerry, received the highest rainfall at 14.1mm, equating to 59 percent of the seasonal average.

Looking ahead, Met Éireann predicts a shift to wetter conditions over the coming week. Rain and showers will be frequent, with particularly heavy rainfall expected on Sunday night and into Monday due to Storm Floris. Despite this, there will be periods of dry and brighter weather. Overall, rainfall totals are expected to range from one to twice the normal levels across much of the country, although some southeastern areas may experience comparatively less rain.

Temperatures during the past week were warmer than usual for this time of year. Mean air temperatures ranged from 15.5 degrees Celsius at Knock/Ireland West Airport, Co. Mayo, to 18.2 degrees Celsius at Roches Point, Co. Cork, which is 0.5 to 2.6 degrees above average. Soil temperatures were also above normal, varying between 16.5 and 20.4 degrees Celsius, which is 1.2 to 4.5 degrees higher than average. Over the next week, air temperatures are expected to return closer to normal levels, ranging between 14 and 16 degrees Celsius, while soil temperatures will remain above average.

Sunshine has been limited nationwide during the last seven days. Northern and western areas recorded the least sunshine, with Malin Head, Co. Donegal, seeing only 10.1 hours, or 33 percent of the average for this period. The south fared better, with Cork Airport recording 26.2 hours of sunshine, about 70 percent of the normal amount. With the upcoming mix of weather, sunshine hours for the week ahead are forecast to be near or slightly below average.