Heavy Rain Sweeps Across Eastern Ireland Ahead of Unsettled Weekend

Heavy rain impacted eastern regions of Ireland on the morning of September 6, 2023, signaling a transition into unsettled weather as the week progresses. As the country prepares for the weekend, those attending the Electric Picnic music festival in Stradbally should anticipate rain and pack accordingly, as forecasts indicate a high likelihood of rainfall throughout the weekend.

A band of heavy, thundery rain accompanied by local lightning has moved across northern and eastern counties. This initial deluge will soon give way to sunny spells, interspersed with scattered heavy showers primarily affecting Atlantic counties. As the day unfolds, these showers are expected to extend further east, with temperatures ranging from 16 to 21 degrees Celsius. The warmest conditions are predicted for the Leinster region.

As evening approaches, further scattered heavy showers will emerge, merging into longer spells of thundery rain across Atlantic counties, which may result in spot flooding. While conditions will remain drier in the east, some showers are expected later in the night, with temperatures dropping to between 10 and 13 degrees Celsius.

Looking ahead, the weather on September 7 is set to worsen as low pressure moves across the country. This shift will bring blustery southwesterly winds and frequent showers, with longer periods of rain and the possibility of lightning and localized flooding, particularly in the northwest. The highest temperatures during this period will likely range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius.

Friday is forecasted to be showery and breezy. Although many areas may experience a brief respite from the rain by Friday night, further rainfall is expected to arrive in southern and western regions before dawn on September 9.

According to Met Éireann, uncertainty remains regarding the weekend weather, but significant rainfall and strong winds are likely, especially on Saturday. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid to high teens, adding to the challenges for outdoor activities such as the Electric Picnic.

As the weekend approaches, residents and festival-goers are advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and to prepare for potential disruptions caused by the evolving weather conditions across the country.