Ground Conditions Set to Deteriorate as Rainfall Returns
After a notably dry week across much of the country, soils in parts of the west, southwest and north are now at risk of becoming waterlogged due to a shift to much wetter conditions in the coming days.
Rainfall
According to Met Éireann, rainfall over the past seven days was well below average nationwide, with most areas receiving less than 20% of typical amounts. However, the western half of the country saw slightly higher totals, with Belmullet, Co. Mayo recording the week’s highest at 7.9mm (47% of average). In stark contrast, Casement Aerodrome reported no rain at all.
This week will see a marked change, with well above-average rainfall forecast for the west, north and parts of the north Midlands. Soils in these areas—especially those that are moderately or poorly drained—are expected to become saturated, with waterlogging likely in places. Conditions will remain drier further east and south, particularly in the southeast.
Field Conditions
Soil moisture deficits currently range from +15mm in the north to +46mm in the south. However, these figures are expected to rapidly fall in the wetter regions as persistent rainfall leads to saturation. Farmers in coastal counties of the west, southwest, north, and in some parts of the north Midlands should be prepared for waterlogged ground later this week, potentially impacting harvesting and grazing.
Drying and Spraying Conditions
Drying conditions will be generally poor, with only brief windows of moderate to good drying possible. Spraying opportunities will be limited due to the unsettled pattern.
Temperatures
Air temperatures last week were significantly above normal, ranging from 1.7 to 4.2 degrees above average. The coming week will remain mild, with mean temperatures near or just above average in most areas, and up to 2 to 3 degrees above average in eastern and southern coastal counties. Soil temperatures remain elevated, between 15.9 and 19.7 degrees.
Sunshine
Sunshine levels were above average last week, with Cork Airport the sunniest spot at 67.5 hours (189% of average). Malin Head saw the least with 38.3 hours. Looking ahead, sunshine will be more limited due to frequent rain or showers, with sunshine totals expected to fall below average.
