Ireland Faces Heavy Rain Ahead of National Ploughing Championships

Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rainfall warning affecting Donegal, Leitrim, and Sligo, effective from 5:00 AM on September 16, 2023. The warning, which will last until 5:00 PM, comes just hours before the commencement of the National Ploughing Championships in Offaly, highlighting potential travel disruptions and hazardous conditions.

The weather service anticipates heavy rainfall throughout the day, with forecasts indicating “further heavy showers or longer spells of rain.” This could lead to difficult traveling conditions, reduced visibility, and localized flooding as the storm system progresses. Additionally, a Small Craft warning is in effect for all coasts of Ireland, with winds expected to reach force six.

As the week begins, weather expert Alan O’Reilly from Carlow Weather described a “windy start,” noting gusts of up to 108 km/h recorded at Mace Head. Power outages have already been reported in some areas. O’Reilly also humorously advised residents to secure trampolines, which may be displaced by high winds.

Forecast for the National Ploughing Championships

The National Ploughing Championships will begin on September 16, with organizers and participants bracing for challenging weather conditions. While Saturday is expected to see a “dry and bright start,” meteorologists warn that heavy rain will move in by the afternoon.

According to Cathal Nolan, a meteorologist with Ireland’s Weather Channel, Ireland is currently near the center of a storm depression. Gale Force 8 to Severe Gale Force 9 winds are anticipated in the Fastnet and Shannon sea areas over the next 24 hours, with further heavy downpours expected.

The next day, the weather may not improve significantly. Although some dry and sunny intervals could occur, blustery conditions and rain are likely to persist, particularly affecting the south coast. Temperatures will range from 16°C to 19°C, with showery conditions forecasted for Wednesday.

Nolan explained that while the weather will be unsettled, Thursday could offer some respite, with drier conditions expected in the northern half of the country. The high of 15°C to 17°C may provide a brief break from the rain, but the week will ultimately remain variable.

Impending Frost and Weather Outlook

Following a tumultuous week of rain and wind, the weekend is predicted to bring a shift in temperatures, with frost likely making an appearance on Sunday. Although Friday is expected to be bright with some showers, Saturday and Sunday could see more significant rainfall.

Nolan cautioned that there is a “real possibility of some grass frost” by the weekend’s end. He described Friday and Saturday as likely to remain unsettled, with rain spreading across the country.

Despite the challenging forecast, weather experts are optimistic about conditions improving after the weekend. O’Reilly noted that a positive shift is anticipated around September 21, when high pressure is expected to build, leading to more settled weather.

Met Éireann corroborated this forecast, indicating that while temperatures may remain around seasonal averages, drier than average conditions are expected for much of the country, particularly in the northwest where rain is likely to be more frequent.

As the National Ploughing Championships unfold, participants and visitors will need to be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, ensuring safety and enjoyment during one of Ireland’s largest agricultural events.