Forecast issued at: Sunday 01st March 2026 13:00
Rain
Over the past week, rainfall amounts were close to or below average for most areas, with the exception of some western coastal areas. Accumulations ranged between 42% of average in the east and 125% of average in the west. Just 5.1mm of rainfall was recorded at Dublin Airport while 28.9mm was recorded at Valentia Observatory, Co. Kerry. In the week ahead, there will be occasional spells of rain, particularly in the west, but it will be largely settled. Rainfall amounts will be well below average for most of the country as a result, though will be closer to average in western areas.
Temperatures
It was milder than average nationwide over the past week, with mean air temperatures ranging from 7.9 to 9.8 degrees, which is between 1.7 and 3.6 degrees above average. Mean soil temperatures were also above average in all areas, ranging between 7.1 and 9.6 degrees, which is 2.5 to 4.6 degrees above average. There will be some cooler interludes in the week ahead, with occasional nighttime frosts possible. Mean air temperatures will fall back to between average and 2 degrees above. Mean soil temperatures will remain above average.
Sunshine
Over the past week, sunshine amounts have been below average, ranging between 29% and 93% of normal. It was brightest in northern areas with 17.2 hours of sunshine recorded at Malin Head, Co. Donegal. The south was the dullest region with just 5.7 hours of sunshine recorded at Cork Airport. More settled conditions and sunny spells in the coming week will result in above average sunshine amounts, with the highest amounts likely in eastern areas.
Drying Conditions
Drying conditions will improve from Monday onwards. There will be spells of rain at times from later on Wednesday, particularly in western areas with drying decreasing moderate as a result.
Spraying
There will be opportunities for spraying at times from Monday onwards with drier conditions and light winds. Moderate to fresh winds will develop through Wednesday which may hinder spraying.
Field Conditions
At present, most soils are saturated with poorly drained soils waterlogged. Field conditions and trafficability will improve during the week ahead. Soil moisture deficits in well and moderately drained soils will increase to between 1 and 5mm. However, poorly drained soils will remain saturated.
Forecast maps and meteograms can be found on Blight Forecast.
