Seasons & weather
Ireland weather: Atlantic systems and local conditions
Ireland’s maritime weather can change quickly as rain bands and showers move across the island. For tomorrow’s weather, choose your own town and compare rain timing, temperature and wind. This country section covers Ireland; Northern Ireland is included in the United Kingdom section and has a different national warning authority.
West, east, coast and higher ground
Atlantic exposure and hills influence rainfall and wind, so nearby places need not experience the same conditions. A sheltered inland location can differ from an open headland, and upland cloud can persist while lower ground becomes brighter. Coastal moderation does not remove the possibility of frost, heat or other extremes.
Planning around showers
Rain radar can help show the movement of existing precipitation. Pair it with the hourly forecast because new showers may form, weaken or change direction. A future frame is an estimate, and rainfall over hills or a small local shower may differ from the displayed pattern.
For a walk, journey or outdoor event, compare a useful period rather than choosing one apparently perfect hour. Temperature, gusts and visibility matter as well as rainfall. For boating and exposed coastal activities, consult the relevant marine information rather than relying on a town forecast.
Weather through the seasons
Winter can bring rain, strong winds, frost, ice and occasional snow. Summer can include warm, dry periods as well as unsettled weather. Spring and autumn often mix mild spells with cooler air. The amount of snow on a model map does not show whether a specific road is icy, and a bright cloud forecast is not a measure of UV risk.
Check whose warning you are reading
Met Éireann uses yellow, orange and red weather warnings for Ireland. Always read the hazard, location, validity and expected impacts. Notices for Northern Ireland can also appear on its website but are supplied by the UK Met Office, which uses amber rather than orange. Weather, flood and fire-related information may come from different competent authorities; the absence of a displayed warning is not an assurance of safety.