Forecast issued at: Thursday 19th March 2026 13:00
Rain
Over the past week, rainfall amounts were below average in southern parts of Munster and Leinster but were above average across the rest of the country. The highest accumulation of 50.1mm was recorded at Gurteen, Co. Tipperary, which is almost three times the norm for this location. The driest location was Roches Point, Co. Cork, with an accumulation of 5.9mm. Generally settled weather is forecast until later on Monday, when a change to rain and showers is expected. Rainfall in the next seven days is forecast to be near or above normal in west Connacht and northwest Ulster, but below normal across the rest of the country. The driest conditions are expected in the south and southeast.
Temperatures
Air temperatures over the past week were generally close to normal, with mean values of 5.7 to 8.3 degrees. Soil temperatures are near or above normal, ranging between 6.3 and 9 degrees. While the week will end with mild daytimes, it will be chilly by night. Temperatures will decrease next week, so averaged over the next seven days, air temperatures will be near or a degree or two above normal.
Sunshine
Sunshine amounts varied across the country during the past week and were below normal for most. It was sunniest at Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford, with 25.8 hours of sunshine (110% of average). It was dullest at Shannon Airport, with 13.7 hours of sunshine (61% of average). The weather will be settled for the next few days but cloud will increase through the weekend. It will become unsettled next week with the return of rain and showers, so sunshine amounts are likely to be near or below normal during the coming seven days.
Drying Conditions
Drying conditions will be good for the next few days as rainfall amounts will be low and it will be mild by day. It will turn cooler and unsettled next week.
Spraying
There will be good opportunities for spraying for the rest of the week and during the weekend, as winds will be light to moderate and rainfall amounts will be low.
Field Conditions
Light soils are trafficable but most poorly drained soils are saturated. The condition of most soils will improve during the next week, however there will be some detioration in soils in the northeast, north and northwest. Some moderately drained soils in these areas will become saturated.
Forecast maps and meteograms can be found on Blight Forecast.
