Easnaimh Thaise na hIthreach

Forecast issued at: Friday 17th August 2018 12:00

Warnings

Warning issued at: Thursday 16 August 2018 21:00
Update on previous blight warning.<br>Weather conditions conducive to the spread of potato blight will occur from late Friday through the weekend and the early days of next week.

Rain

Over the past week, rainfall amounts were below average for most of Ireland ranging from 40 to 80 % of average. Amounts were close to normal near northwest and north coasts and were above average in southwest Munster, ranging from 100 to 115 %. Over the coming week, rainfall amounts will be around average or below average in Leinster and Munster, but will be above average in northern parts of Ulster and Connacht. The heaviest spell of rain will be on Saturday night.

Temperatures

Mean air temperatures this past week have been close to normal for mid-August ranging from 14 to 16 degrees across the country. Soil temperatures were above average by between 0.5 and 2.2 degrees. Over the coming week, air temperatures will be above average by between 0 and 2 degrees, with the highest values in the east. Soil temperatures will continue above average.

Sunshine

Sunshine amounts for the past week were mostly below the long term average, ranging from around 80 to 100% of normal. For the coming week, sunshine amounts will be mostly below normal up to and including Tuesday. However, there'll be longer spell of sunshine from Wednesday onwards.

Drying Conditions

Mild, humid weather will make for poor drying conditions for the weekend, Monday and Tuesday. From Wednesday onwards, cooler, fresher weather will give better drying, though there will be some showers at times.

Spraying

There will be some opportunities for spraying over the coming week. However, these will be limited at times due to rain, showers or fresh breezes.

Field Conditions

Soil moisture deficits remain high over parts of Munster and much of Leinster with growth continuing to be restricted, but elsewhere soil moisture deficits have reduced due to recent rainfall and are trafficable. Soil moisture deficits will reduce somewhat this week, with above average rainfall expected in some areas. However, for east Munster and parts of Leinster, soil moisture deficits will remain high.

Further Comments

Conditions conducive to spread of potato blight will occur over the weekend and at times on Monday and Tuesday, especially in the northwest.