Monthly Forecast

Monthly forecasts can at times provide an insight into weather patterns in the month ahead. However, they should not be used for specific planning purposes as they have generally low skill compared with the 10-day forecast. This is because forecasts beyond one week become increasingly uncertain due to the chaotic nature of the atmosphere. Monthly forecast explained.

Images: gabriel12/Shutterstock.com, Met Éireann HQ during Storm Emma 2018

MONTHLY FORECAST, ISSUED TUESDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2021

Week 1 (Friday 03 December to Thursday 09 December)

Low pressure looks set to be the dominant feature of the weather over Ireland during this week bringing unsettled conditions. Cold west or northwest air-flows are expected to be a common feature bringing blustery conditions at times and a possibility of some frost and wintry precipitation, this mainly confined to high ground. Rainfall/ precipitation totals are predicted to be slightly above normal nationwide. Windy or stormy conditions cannot be ruled out at times.

Week 2 (Friday 10 December to Thursday 16 December)

At week 2, there remains a signal for low pressure to remain the dominant feature near Ireland bringing rather unsettled weather conditions. Mean air temperatures are expected to be around average for December whilst rainfall totals are forecast to be above average.

Week 3 (Friday 17 December to Thursday 23 December)

By week 3 a tentative change in weather pattern is currently forecast as high pressure builds to our northeast, ridging towards Ireland at times. Early indications suggest it will be drier than average with high pressure bringing more settled conditions. Mean air temperatures are forecast to be a little above average.

Week 4 (Friday 24 December to Thursday 30 December)

By week 4, there is an unusually strong signal for high pressure to build near Ireland. Confidence remains low but if this materialised there would be a dry and settled period of weather with below normal rainfall amounts. Air temperatures are currently forecast to be around average for late December.