Grey skies loom over Cork city as we enter the final weeks of what has been a disappointing summer. However, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon as the upcoming weekend promises a change in weather. Today, temperatures will range between 16C and 18C, with a brief increase to 20C in the late afternoon. Heavy rain showers have been intermittent this morning, but they are expected to persist until lunchtime. After that, conditions are likely to remain relatively dry for the rest of the day.
In recent weeks, we have experienced a mix of weather conditions, with the worst often saved for the weekends. Storm Betty was a prime example, as it brought a sudden shift in weather last Friday, turning the weekend into a washout. However, this weekend appears to be breaking the pattern. While temperatures may not be noteworthy, hovering around 16C, the forecast suggests that it will remain relatively dry, with some periods of clear skies and sunshine on Saturday. This change could indicate a shift towards better weather in the coming weeks. However, there is still uncertainty about the weather conditions expected at the start of September.
According to weather expert James Peacock, an “intense heat dome” is heading towards Western Europe, which could result in soaring temperatures across the UK and Ireland. However, the peak of the Atlantic storm season has thrown a spanner in the works. Three separate storms – Franklin, Gert, and Emily – are brewing, and their indirect effects could impact the weather patterns in Cork. The situation remains unpredictable.
Here is the full regional forecast for Munster:
Today, expect mostly cloudy skies with outbreaks of rain and drizzle in the morning. These will gradually clear eastwards in the afternoon, allowing for some brighter intervals later in the day. Apart from isolated showers, it will be largely dry. Temperatures will reach a high of 17 to 20 degrees, with a light to moderate south to southwest wind. The Solar UV Index for today is moderate to high in sunshine and low to moderate in cloud. Tomorrow, expect similar conditions with moderate UV levels.
Tonight, there will be clear spells and isolated showers. The lowest temperatures will range from 9 to 12 degrees. Initially, there will be light to moderate south to southwest winds, but they will become calm later in the night.
Tomorrow morning and early afternoon will be mostly dry, with some sunny spells and only isolated showers. However, scattered showers will develop in the late afternoon and evening. Temperatures will reach a high of 16 to 18 degrees, with a light to moderate westerly wind.
As we navigate through the last weeks of summer, the weather in Cork remains unpredictable. While there is hope for a change in the upcoming weekend, the impact of Atlantic storms and the potential heat dome looms over us. Stay tuned for further updates as we approach September, and keep an eye on the ever-changing forecast.
