On Monday, as the nation recovers from Storm Kathleen, counties in the southeast are under a yellow alert for rain. Counties such as Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, and Waterford, have been predicted by Met Éireann to experience heavy rainfall with a potential for floods. As such, until midnight, the yellow alert remains in force for the affected counties.
Throughout Monday, consistent rainfall is expected in Leinster, as well as northward-moving drizzle and rain. On the other hand, the western regions are slated to remain largely arid. The day’s peak temperatures are anticipated to range between 5 and 10 degrees.
Nationally, unstable conditions persist, with the evening presenting the chance of more temperate weather.
For ardent astronomy enthusiasts awaiting Monday evening’s partial solar eclipse, the ongoing rain might prove problematic. Persistent rainfall is forecasted for the midlands and the country’s southern and eastern sections till the evening, coinciding with the commencement of the eclipse at 7.55pm.
Those residing in western counties, however – the region offering the optimal eclipse view – might narrowly escape the brunt of the rainfall. According to Met Éireann, the region will witness very little rain and perhaps even a few isolated showers. With the temperature roundabout of 7 degrees, Monday evening will likely be relatively chill.
Chairman of Astronomy Ireland, David Moore, suggested that an unimpeded view of the western skyline would provide the finest vision of the astral occurrence. He advised against obstructions like trees, buildings or hills and proposed an elevated viewpoint like a hill overlooking the sea as ideal. Anticipating perfect weather, Moore even suggested the highest points on the west coast’s mountains as vantage points.
The weather warnings are due to be lifted by the stroke of midnight. Despite sporadic showers, Tuesday is likely to be predominantly sunny and dry, with expected temperatures oscillating between 8 and 12 degrees.