Forecast issued at: Saturday 18th October 2025 12:00
Rain
Rainfall over the past seven days was significantly below normal with several stations recording no rainfall. Ballyhaise, Co. Monaghan recorded the most with just 1.3mm which equates to 6% of its average for the time of year. Very contrasting conditions are expected over the coming week with unsettled conditions and frequent spells of rain and showers. Overall, rainfall amounts will likely range between 30 and 60mm for most with 1.3 to 3.5 times the normal amounts expected for most. Some parts of the northwest may fare better.
Temperatures
Last week mean air temperatures ranged between 9.7 and 12.9 degrees which is within a degree of normal for most of the country. It was warmest in the southwest with Valentia Observatory, Co. Kerry recording 12.9 degrees which is 1.1 degrees above its average. Over the coming week, it will be milder than normal initially before falling close to average towards midweek before then likely falling below average. Overall, mean air temperatures will likely range between 9 and 12 degrees which is close to or slightly below normal for most.
Sunshine
The past week was very dull for most of the country due to the extensive cloud cover. Valentia Observatory, Co. Kerry was the exception with 22.1 hours recorded (113% of normal). Elsewhere, amounts ranged between 0.1 hours at Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford and 5.2 hours at Belmullet, Co. Mayo. While more unsettled conditions are expected for the coming week, there will be much more in the way of sunshine compared to the past week though amounts will likely be around or below average generally.
Drying Conditions
With mostly unsettled conditions for the coming week, drying opportunities will be very limited. The driest period currently expected is later Tuesday and early Wednesday though winds will generally be light during that timeframe.
Spraying
Similarly, spraying opportunities will be very limited. However, from later Tuesday into early Wednesday, there will likely be some good conditions outside of a few showers about.
Field Conditions
Soil moisture deficits across well and moderately drained soils currently range between 7 and 14mm while ranging between 0 and 7mm for poorly drained soils. Over the coming week, all soils will deteriorate with all well drained soils becoming saturated or close to it. All moderately and poorly drained soils will become saturated or waterlogged though there may be a slight recovery at times next week.
Forecast maps and meteograms can be found on Blight Forecast.
