Easnaimh Thaise na hIthreach

Forecast issued at: Wednesday 18th July 2018 14:00

Rain

Rainfall over the past week has continued well below average in most areas. Sunday brought the first appreciable rain in weeks, with accumulations generally between 10 and 15mm along Atlantic coastal areas, but elsewhere values generally between 1 and 7mm. With more of an Atlantic influence on our weather this week, there will be some rain in the forecast, with some appreciable amounts for parts of the north and west Thursday night and Friday but elsewhere amounts generally small. Overall rainfall is expected to remain well below average in most areas with the East and South continuing to experience the driest conditions.

Temperatures

Mean air temperatures have varied across the country over the past week with most areas recording above average temperatures. Parts of the South and Southeast of the country ranged 1 to 2 degrees above average, but elsewhere temperatures were close to 0.5 degrees above average. Temperatures this coming week are expected to stay around normal along Atlantic coastal areas however elsewhere temperatures are expected to be 1 or 2 degrees above average but perhaps 3 degrees above in parts of the East.

Sunshine

Sunshine values have been above average over the Southern half of the country this past week, but it was duller than normal elsewhere. Parts of the North and Northwest recorded less than half the normal expected sunshine hours. With more of an Atlantic influence on our weather over the coming week, there will likely be more cloud around. Sunshine amounts will therefore return to nearer normal in the south and it will likely remain below normal elsewhere.

Drying Conditions

There is currently an orange forest fire warning in operation. Drying conditions will be moderate to good this week, but reducing poor later Thursday evening and Friday.

Spraying

Generally good opportunities outside of rain Thursday evening and Friday.

Field Conditions

Soil moisture deficits are very high ranging from around 45 to 65 mm in Ulster and Connacht, with values elsewhere running between 80 and 95 mm.