Forecast issued at: Saturday 21st December 2024 12:00
Rain
Rainfall amounts over the past seven days were below the average for the time of year for most areas apart from along the south coast where rainfall amounts were close to normal. Away from the south coast values between 17% and 70% of the normal amounts were recorded. Valentia, Co. Kerry recorded the most rainfall with 31.4 mm while Dublin Airport, recorded the least with just 2.8 mm. The coming days will become more settled with high pressure taking control of our weather. After further showers tomorrow and a spell of rain Monday it will become mainly dry with just light rain or drizzle and so most areas can expect 15 to 35mm generally. Rainfall amounts will be higher along western coasts.
Temperatures
Mean air temperatures have been above average across the country over the past week, ranging from 7.2 degrees at Knock/Ireland West Airport, Co. Mayo to 10.1 degrees at Valentia, Co. Kerry. Temperatures generally ranged from 1.6 degrees to 2.9 degrees above average. Mean soil temperatures were also above average this past week generally ranging between 6.4 and 9 degrees. Over the coming week, as it turns milder, temperatures will be above average. Mean air temperatures will likely range between 8 and 11 degrees, with values ranging between 2 to 4 degrees above normal in places. Mean soil temperatures will also remain above average.
Sunshine
Sunshine amounts over the past week were below average for most stations across the country. Amounts ranged from 54% of average at Belmullet to 131% of average at Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford. Sunshine amounts will be variable over the coming week but will likely be around average overall.
Drying Conditions
Drying opportunities will generally be limited until early next week with spells of rain and showers. A drier period dominated by high pressure looks set to develop next week.
Spraying
Spraying conditions will be generally poor until early next week with strong and gusty winds forecast this weekend.
Field Conditions
All soils are currently saturated or close to it and some moderately drained and poorly drained soils are waterlogged. Similar conditions will likely prevail for the coming week.
Forecast maps and meteograms can be found on Blight Forecast.
