Southern and southeastern counties in the UK are on alert due to a yellow weather warning for rain on Monday following the aftermath of Storm Kathleen. Predictions from Met Éireann indicate a high likelihood of heavy rainfall across counties Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Waterford and Cork, raising worries of possible flooding.
The yellow weather warning will stay operative till midnight, save for Cork where the warning will run out at 7pm this evening. Over the day, constant rainfall is forecasted for Leinster, and lighter, more sporadic rainfall will inch northwards. The western region will primarily remain dry, with temperatures oscillating between 5 and 10 degrees.
While milder temperatures are anticipated nationwide in the evening, the overall weather scenario remains uncertain. The weather condition might prove to be a hindrance for those anticipating the partial solar eclipse on Monday evening. Persistent rain is expected in the midlands, southern and eastern parts of the country into the evening, with the eclipse scheduled to start at 7.55pm.
Though the western counties are projected to offer the best vantage point for the eclipse, the chances of these regions evading the brunt of the rainfall are quite high. There may be a few isolated showers, but it will predominantly stay dry, as per Met Éireann. Temperatures are expected to hover around 7 degrees on Monday evening.
As stated by the chairman of Astronomy Ireland, David Moore, an unblocked view of the western skyline will offer the most optimum view of the celestial event. He suggests steering clear of any potential hurdles such as trees, buildings or hills. He states, “The prime location would be atop a hill with a clear view of the sea. In fact, assuming favourable weather conditions, the views from the peak of a western coast mountain – perhaps Croagh Patrick – could be ideal.”
All weather warnings will cease at midnight. Despite the possible showers, Tuesday is slated to be predominantly sunny and dry, with temperature highs fluctuating between 8 and 12 degrees.