Improving conditions for fieldwork early next wee

Farmers across Ireland can expect improving conditions for fieldwork early next week, although cooler temperatures will continue to affect much of the country.

According to Met Éireann, mean air temperatures over the coming week are expected to range between 10 and 13 degrees, two to three degrees below the seasonal average in most areas. Some northern counties may see temperatures closer to normal. Soil temperatures, which were above normal last week at between 12.4 and 14.6 degrees, will also fall as the cooler weather settles in.

The dry spell at the start of next week is expected to provide good opportunities for spraying, particularly on well and moderately drained soils. Met Éireann advises that winds will generally be light to moderate, further supporting fieldwork.

Soil conditions are improving after a particularly wet period, though waterlogging remains an issue in poorly drained areas of the southeast and in much of the northwestern half of the country. Well and moderately drained soils are expected to show modest moisture deficits, while poorly drained soils may see conditions ranging from slightly wet to near normal.

Farmers should remain cautious, however, as heavy spells of rain are possible later in the working week. Met Éireann stressed that there is considerable uncertainty over the timing and intensity of any late-week rainfall. Despite this, the early week window of drier weather is being welcomed by many in the agricultural sector, particularly those looking to carry out spraying and other essential field operations.