While most of the country experienced a drier than usual week, Cavan was the only county to record above average rainfall, according to Met Éireann.

A total of 23.7mm of rain fell at Ballyhaise, Co Cavan, which is about 7 per cent higher than normal for the time of year. In contrast, the south saw notably dry conditions, with just 0.4mm recorded at Johnstown Castle, Co Wexford.

The national forecaster said weather conditions will remain largely settled in the coming days, with rainfall amounts expected to stay well below normal across the country.

Air temperatures over the past week were near or slightly above average, ranging from 11.1 to 12.9 degrees. Soil temperatures were also above normal, between 11.6 and 13.7 degrees, and are forecast to stay in the 10 to 14 degree range through the week.

Sunshine levels were subdued nationwide. Malin Head recorded just 5.6 hours of sunshine, about a quarter of the seasonal norm, while Johnstown Castle was brightest with 21.2 hours. Met Éireann said generally dull conditions are likely to persist, keeping sunshine totals below normal.