Latest Farming Commentary

Forecast issued at: Wednesday 04th February 2026 14:00

Rain

Rainfall amounts over the past week were above normal across most of Leinster and in eastern parts of Munster, with two or three times the normal amount of rain falling in parts of the east and southeast. In contrast, the west and north-west had below average amounts of rainfall. It was wettest at Johnstown Castle, where an accumulation of 68.7mm was recorded (324% of average) and driest at Malin Head with an accumulation of 8.4mm (31% of average). Rainfall amounts will vary over the next seven days, but will remain above average in the east and southeast, with three times the normal amount of rain forecast for these areas. It will be driest across the northwest.

Temperatures

Temperatures were slightly above normal during the past seven days, with mean values ranging between 5.2 and 8 degrees. It will be a little milder during the coming week, with mean temperatures of 6 to 10 degrees, which for many areas is a degree or two above normal for early February. Soil temperatures are near or above average, ranging between 5.2 and 6.7 degrees.

Sunshine

Dull conditions have persisted across much of the country this past week, particularly in the east and southeast where sunshine amounts were well below normal. In contrast, it was sunnier than average in the west and northwest. The dullest location was Dublin Airport, recording 6.5 hours of sunshine (41% of average) and the sunniest was Belmullet with 21.8 hours of sunshine (166% of average). With further rain and showers forecast over the next week, sunshine will be near or below normal across many areas again.

Drying Conditions

Drying conditions will be moderate or poor over the next week due to spells of rain and showers.

Spraying

Spraying conditions will be moderate or poor over the next week due to spells of rain and showers. It will be breezy or windy at times too.

Field Conditions

Soils are currently saturated or waterlogged and with further rain on the way there will be some deterioration in soil condiitons during the coming week.

Forecast maps and meteograms can be found on Blight Forecast.

Agricultural Data Graphs

Soil Moisture Deficits

Soil Moisture Deficits (SMDs) in (mm) are calculated for three classes of soil: well drained, moderately drained and poorly drained. For further information on how Soil Moisture Deficits are calculated, click here.