Farmers can expect a largely dry and settled week ahead, with Met Éireann reporting high soil temperatures and improved drying conditions across most parts of the country.

According to the latest figures, soil temperatures remain elevated for the time of year, ranging from 12.2°C at Knock to 14.1°C at Shannon. These readings are between 1.6°C and 2.7°C above average, supporting continued grass growth well into mid-October. Met Éireann says temperatures are expected to remain steady in the coming days, with no major cooling trend forecast.

Dry conditions are likely to dominate across much of Ireland, with only isolated drizzle in the northwest and occasional patchy rain in the south and west. The southeast looks set to remain driest, providing favourable conditions for field work and improved access to land.

The forecaster said drying conditions will improve significantly this week thanks to much-reduced rainfall and generally light winds. While cloud cover may occasionally limit efficiency, “overall, this will be a good week for drying, particularly in southern and eastern regions,” Met Éireann noted.

Spraying opportunities are also expected to improve markedly compared to recent weeks. Light winds and drier conditions will support operations, although early morning fog and surface moisture may temporarily restrict activity in inland areas.

After a spell of heavy rain, soils remain very wet in the west, midlands and northwest, particularly on heavier or poorly drained ground. However, the forecast dry spell should see a steady improvement in soil trafficability, with most soils becoming workable later in the week. Better-drained areas are likely to recover fastest, Met Éireann said.