Your daily forecasts from Boards.ie weather forum (NO CHAT)

M.T. Cranium · 16-03-2014 8:58am

Sunday, 16 March, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Misty or foggy to start, some areas may brighten towards mid-day and afternoon, but fog may be slow to clear under an inversion. Highs will depend on any clearing trend, 8-12 C where cloud remains low, 12-15 C possible in some brighter locations.

TONIGHT ... Cloudy with occasional drizzle or light rain in western counties, mild, lows 4-7 C.

MONDAY 17th will likely be a fairly pleasant day in most eastern and southern counties, and a little unsettled in the west and north but rainfall amounts only slight (1-3 mm), with highs generally around 12-14 C. Moderate southwest winds will develop during the afternoon and evening.

TUESDAY will see showers or periods of rain, in moderate south to southwest winds. It will feel quite chilly in the north especially early morning to mid-day and there could be a touch of sleet on some higher ground, but highs in most places will reach about 9-11 C.

WEDNESDAY will continue breezy or even windy at times with showers or periods of rain and highs near 11 or 12 C.

THURSDAY will become partly cloudy with isolated showers and highs near 10.

FRIDAY looks unsettled and there are some indications of strong southwest winds developing, but earlier suggestions of very strong gusts have been withdrawn in more recent model runs, so gusts to perhaps 80 km/hr would be in our current forecast. Highs will once again be close to normal values at 10 or 11 C.

The following weekend then looks somewhat cooler with occasional showers, highs 8-10 C. This cooler trend may last a few days into the next week.

Forecasts for Britain

TODAY will feature more sunshine in most parts of England than in our current Ireland forecast, and that may allow highs to reach 15 C, but otherwise the week ahead looks fairly similar to the above forecasts.

Forecasts for North America

With rather cold air in place over the northeast U.S., Great Lakes and Midwest, weak disturbances moving east will bring sleet or snow to some areas later today and Monday, heaviest amounts predicted for Maryland and northern Virginia at 10-15 cm. A cold rain or sleet will fall further south in the Carolinas, warmer air is now confined to the Gulf coast region. The west remains mild to warm and dry, with rain moving inland north of about central Washington state. ... My local weather on Saturday was overcast with periods of heavy rain, about 30-40 mm was recorded, and it was about 10 C.

M.T. Cranium · 17-03-2014 8:04am

Monday, 17 March, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

Full moon has just passed as of 17:08h Sunday.

TODAY will be mostly cloudy, if there are a few brighter intervals they will occur around the southeast, and patchy drizzle or light showers may spread into parts of the west, but rainfalls will be slight. Highs about 12 C for most, possibly 13 or 14 in a few parts of the east and south.

TONIGHT will continue cloudy with rain developing, strong southwest winds veering more to westerly, and lows about 5-7 C.

TUESDAY will bring rain at times, becoming more showery with partial clearing for the afternoon at least in some western counties, winds gusting to about 80 km/hr, and highs near 10 C.

WEDNESDAY will be milder again with some heavier showers developing after a partly cloudy start to the day, lows 2-5 C and highs 11-14 C. It will once again become windy by afternoon and evening (SSW 60-90 km/hr).

THURSDAY will begin wet and breezy, turning fresher and drier by afternoon, highs near 10 C and winds westerly 50-80 km/hr.

FRIDAY and SATURDAY are likely to bring colder weather with brief showers that could contain a bit of hail or sleet with snow falling on high ground at times, highs 7-9 C in northwest winds sometimes gusting to 70-90 km/hr.

SUNDAY and MONDAY are also looking rather cool although more settled, then a gradual warming trend should follow towards the middle or end of the week.

My local weather on Sunday was cloudy with a few showers and highs near 10.

Enjoy the Day !!!

M.T. Cranium · 18-03-2014 7:57am

Tuesday, 18 March, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... During the morning, periods of rain and gusty SW winds 60-90 km/hr will be followed by partly cloudy skies with just isolated showers by afternoon. Highs 10-12 C. Rainfalls will total 10-15 mm for most, 5-10 mm southeast.

TONIGHT ... Partly cloudy, breezy, lows about 4-7 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Becoming very mild in south to southwest winds increasing to about 50-80 km/hr by afternoon. Rain sweeping into the west by late afternoon or evening but possibly remaining dry elsewhere. Highs 12-14 C west and 14-16 C east.

THURSDAY ... Morning showers or periods of rain, winds veering to westerly 50-80 km/hr, partial clearing to follow, morning lows 7-9 C and afternoon highs about 9-11 C.

FRIDAY ... Variable cloud, showers becoming rather wintry on higher terrain by afternoon and evening, with an interval of strong southwest winds by late in the day for Munster and south Connacht (gusts to near 100 km/hr). Morning lows 2-4 C and afternoon highs 8-10 C.

OUTLOOK ... Windy, mixed or wintry showers possible on Saturday, cold in strong west to northwest winds, highs 7-9 C. It may then clear to create one of the coldest nights this (extended) winter season, which is not saying much, at around -4 C in some spots, even -5 in the usual cold spots well inland. Some sunny intervals by Sunday and continued chilly at 7-10 C. ... A gradual warming trend will follow with highs back into the mid-teens by around Wednesday 26th and for several days after that.

My local weather on Monday was partly sunny with a high near 10 C, after a rather windy overnight with a few showers. Just a heads up, I will be taking some time off the internet over the next week or two, may get back to post the occasional forecast but will be seeking some volunteers to post (perhaps just one update on Friday?) from Thursday to Sunday at least. I expect to have better chances of getting on the internet for a few days next week, then another few days of travel to follow that.

M.T. Cranium · 19-03-2014 8:31am

Wednesday, 19 March, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

MTC is starting a holiday period and this forecast will be updated by other members of Boards at various times between now and 2 April, except perhaps once around the middle of the two weeks as I will need to check in to set the April forecast contest up about a week from today. Other than that, see you all in April.

TODAY will become very mild in most regions, with highs reaching 13-15 C and possibly 16 C in parts of the inland south. Skies will be more cloudy than clear but there could be some longer localized sunny intervals. Rain may begin on parts of the outer west coast towards evening. Winds will be moderate from the south to southwest, but rather strong at times this afternoon near the west coast (gusting to 80 km/hr).

TONIGHT will become wet with strong southwest winds gusting to 80 km/hr and temperatures steady in the 8-10 C range.

THURSDAY will see the rain turning to showers, followed by fresher and cooler weather in moderate westerly winds, highs 10-12 C.

FRIDAY and SATURDAY will be breezy and rather cool days with passing showers that could contain hail, thunder, and (on higher terrain) sleet. Highs both days 7-9 C and morning lows about 2-4 C but a touch of frost is possible in the inland north.

SUNDAY and MONDAY will be more settled days with continued rather cold daytime highs near 8 C and the risk of sharp frosts near -2 to -4 C. Rain may arrive in the west later on Monday.

OUTLOOK is for milder weather again for a day or two, followed by another quite cold interval near the end of the week (around 28-29 March).

My local weather on Tuesday was partly to mostly cloudy with a cool breeze and highs near 9 C. It has been raining since about sunset. Heavy snow is predicted for higher elevations of this region, but I hope to avoid that and get into some much warmer weather that's lurking off to my south, at least by Thursday and Friday.

pauldry · 21-03-2014 12:09pm

Friday March 21st 2014

Breezy with some passing showers of rain or hail and temperatures of 5 to 8c

Cool tonight some wintry showers low minus 2 away from Atlantic coasts 3c here

Saturday

Cool and breezy widespread showers some of hail 5 to 8c

Frosty night low minus 2 or 3

Sunday

Dry with only a few light showers

Very cold night low minus 4

Monday

Rainy start to week then milder until Thursday

vickers209 · 22-03-2014 9:28am

Will have a go

Today: A cold start with temps around freezing, it will be a blustery day with sunny spells in all areas.
Heavy wintry showers will occur also with isolated thunderstorms highest temperatures only 5 to 8 degrees in strong and gusty winds.

Tonight: Feeling very Cold and blustery with clear spells in all areas.
Scattered heavy showers of rain, hail, sleet or snow will occur also and there will be a further risk of isolated thunderstorm activity.
Lowest temperatures zero to -2 degrees leading to some icy condition's

Sunday: A cold, blustery day with sunny spells in all areas. Passing heavy wintry showers at first will die out and winds will gradually ease
Highest temperatures 6 to 9 degrees.
Sunday night will be cold at first with frost but heavy rain will move in overnight

Monday: Wet and windy Rain will spread to all areas Monday morning.
Fresh to strong winds will ease later with the rain clear to sunny spells and scattered showers. Feeling Cold.

Outlook
Next week temperatures will be below average and further night frosts may occur
Tuesday: Cool and mixed with sunny spells and heavy rain or hail showers.

Wednesday & Thursday: A possibility of mainly dry weather with sunny spells and well scattered showers.

Uk

Today: A day of sunshine and blustery showers for many, which will bring a risk of hail and thunder and also snow, mainly over high ground. Showers may merge into more organised bands at times. Breezy again and feeling rather cold.

Tonight: Further blustery showers, especially across northern and western parts, which will fall as snow over the hills. Clear spells between showers leading to another cold night, with icy patches.

Sunday: Plenty of sunny spells, with showers becoming more isolated and increasingly confined to central and eastern areas through the day. Winds easing towards evening. Cold overnight, with a widespread frost.

Monday to Wednesday:Largely dry Monday after frosty start, but rain gradually pushing into far southwest. Tuesday, rather cloudy with rain in places, becoming confined to southeastern areas on Wednesday. Rather cold still.

pauldry · 24-03-2014 12:01am

Weather for next week is

Monday: Rainy and Windy 10 to 20mm of rain with a clearance in the evening in the West. Temps 7 to 10c

Tuesday: Much drier but with showers around from time to time and max 9c

Wednesday to Friday: Easterly flow. Dry in the West and North but some Rain in the South and East moving West occasionally.

Weekend: Cloudy and Cool

200motels · 25-03-2014 4:49pm

Dry at first tonight, rain will move into the north of the country early tonight and will extend to eastern parts later in the night. The west will be dry and clear, lowest temps of 0 to 4 C

Tomorrow

Cloudy on Wednesday with outbreaks of rain for much of Leinster and Ulster. Other places it will be drier with some bright spells. Temps of 8 to 11 C

Outlook

Wednesday night : Dry in most areas, with clear spells but very cold and frosty, with a risk of icy patches. Mist and fog patches may also develop, Temps 0 to minus 2 Celsius, in a light easterly breeze.

Thursday : Cold, with a mixture of bright or sunny spells and scattered showers. Temps 7 to 10 C. Cold and frosty again on Thursday night.

Friday : Bright spells and scattered showers. Temps 8 to 12 C

Weekend : Becoming milder, with sunny spells and scattered showers. Windy. Temps on Saturday 9 to 13 C rising to between 11 and 15 C on Sunday

Further Outlook : At this stage it looks like it will be mild to very mild next week.

dacogawa · 26-03-2014 12:59pm

Today: Showers along the eastern half of the country & a bit brighter in the west with the occasional shower, this will move further south-west as the day goes on leading to some showers in the Munster/Connacht & drier weather along the east coast, highs 7C to 12C

Tonight: Remaining showers will clear towards the south-west leaving a mostly dry clear cold night for the country, some frost developing inland with slightly higher temperatures along the coasts 3C to -1C

Thursday : Rain & Showers (some heavy) will move in from the east coast early morning while starting dry & clear in the west, these will move westwards as the day goes on covering most of the country, will feel cold in the easterly wind 6C to 11C. Some clearing on Thursday night for most of the country while showers linger along the east coast, cold but probably not as cold as tonight 4C to 1C

Friday : Feeling a bit warmer as the wind shifts more south easterly, starting off dry in the west with some sunny spells but rain/showers approaching from the south-east & staying over the country for the rest of the day with the odd break, 8 to 12 C

Weekend : Sunday looks the better day of the weekend (although cloudy) as drizzle/showers/rain continue on from Friday night around the country with the occasional breaks on Saturday & will continue in Leinster & Ulster into Sunday morning. Maybe a shower around the midlands during the day on Sunday & Cork area Sunday night

Further Outlook : Next week looks milder with more showers, further out it could become quite warm & spring like around the 7/8th as a high pressure moves towards us. I'm sure M.T. will deal with that good news upon his return

M.T. Cranium · 26-03-2014 4:51pm

Hey there, thanks to all for picking up the slack. Down side is that now readers will be expecting accurate forecasts. Oh well ...

... my travels have taken me through the beauty and heat of the southwest U.S. (27 C on Saturday 22nd) to the frigid chill of Ottawa, where this nation receives its governance whether wanted or not. Certainly the weather falls under the heading "not" as today (and yes I have not gone back in time) under clear blue skies, it is -12 C at noon. C'mon, we're at the same latitude as the French Riviera almost.

There is a major blizzard raging 500 miles to my east (not really my fault now) and my better half says it is spring-like on the west coast and about 17 C. This is good because I am heading west in stages on Friday (not horse-drawn) and hope to get out of this air mass and back to the enormous pile of weather forum administrivia which will await.

Thanks again to all who have kept up the thread, and I may not actually post again until perhaps the weekend. I may take a quick look at models now just to see if there's anything enormous in the near future there. -- MTC

200motels · 28-03-2014 10:38am

Today Rather cool and breezy today with some heavy showers of rain. Showers will be mostly occur across eastern counties. Highest temps 7 to 10 C.

Tonight
Heavy showers continuing tonight with the possibility of thunder. Mist and fog in parts also with light easterly breezes. Lowest temps 1 to 5 C.

Tomorrow

Some bright or sunny spells early on but showers will develop later. Some sunny spells also, best place of these occurring in the north and east, where it will also be mildest. Highest temps 8 to 13 C.

Outlook: Becoming milder later this weekend and for next week. However the East and South will be cooler. Some showers may also occur.

pauldry · 30-03-2014 12:09am

Easterlies to persist until next Thursday at least

However it not be all dry weather there will be dry spells interspersed with thundery showers and it will be breezy at times.

Details vary but tomorrow, Sunday will see some hazy sunshine and showers heavy in place. Temp 11 to 15c (in sunshine)

Monday more showers but a lot of dry spells too I would say in the West and North these are more likely

Tuesday sees more widespread showers and thundery air. Temps Monday and Tuesday around 10 to 13 or 14c

Wednesday and Thursday a bit breezier with still some showers at time. 13c

ROY RACE · 31-03-2014 7:02pm

Cloudy with rain one minute ,sun the next and wind later.The model predicts more of the same for the week.

antodeco · 31-03-2014 7:11pm

Eastern parts of the country will see heavy downpours as we enter the night with a northerly breeze pushing this northwards leaving behind possible heavy fog, with temps around 5 degrees. Rest of the country should escape most of the heavier rain.

Mild tomorrow with the driest weather in the morning till early afternoon. A band of showers will pass through most of the country. Sunshine and showers are the order for most of tomorrow, with the milder temperatures possibly causing thunderstorms further south.

Later in the week with be low double figures with a cooler breeze coming from the north. Again a mixture of sunshine and showers. Friday we should see the best of the weather this week.

Weekend is still up the in the air. Possibly one last revert to colder wet weather before we start to see the proper signs of Spring.

M.T. Cranium · 02-04-2014 5:05pm

UPDATE from MTC
__________________

Greetings, I hope to resume my daily forecasts on Thursday morning. I've had a look back to see what weather I missed for the past two weeks (in Ireland, that is) ... Just getting back into the patterns now after two weeks away, and enjoying some mild sunshine here today with expected high of 15 C.

After a few days of very warm, sunny weather in the desert southwest from Saturday to Monday (morning), I then drove north towards home and saw some extensive virga (rain or snow not reaching surface) over northern Nevada on Monday, with cloud bases just touching the various higher peaks at about 3,000 metres above sea level, but later in mountains of central Oregon this changed to heavy wet snow overnight presenting a 3-5 cm fresh cover on Tuesday morning (above 1000 metres to peak level). That changed to rain showers when I reached lower elevations in the Columbia River valley and then it cleared up near Mount Rainier in WA, allowing for some spectacular views of snow-covered peaks in the Cascades. Full-on spring conditions closer to sea level with most of the trees either fully out or getting close.

I note that we passed the new moon on Sunday 30 March, so these next few days should provide opportunities to see the waxing crescent of the Moon in the evening skies. Also in astronomy notes, today the planet Uranus was (at 07z) in conjunction with the Sun, meaning that it was on the opposite side of the solar system from us and located basically behind the solar disk.

Okay then, check tomorrow morning and your MTC forecast should be back in its usual location.

M.T. Cranium · 03-04-2014 7:28am

Thursday, 3 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Some outbreaks of light rain may develop near the east coast and a few isolated showers are likely around central counties but some parts of the south and west could remain dry, with a few brighter intervals in a mild southerly flow, highs of 13-15 C. Rainfalls will generally be 2-5 mm where they occur at all. Humidity levels will be rather high, and breezes 20-40 km/hr from southeast to south. Some hill fog is likely in Leinster.

TONIGHT ... Drizzle or mist in some parts of the east, partly cloudy skies more widespread in central and western counties, mild with lows 8-10 C.

FRIDAY ... Variable cloud and mild with showers or periods of rain, 5-10 mm possible, highs 14-16 C.

SATURDAY ... Showers or periods of rain, 10-15 mm and highs 13-15 C.

SUNDAY ... Partly cloudy with showers at times, 2-5 mm and highs 12-14 C. Becoming rather windy from SW to W, and turning cooler during the afternoon or evening.

MONDAY ... Windy and cool with frequent showers, possible hail or thunder. Lows 3-5 C and highs 10-12 C.

OUTLOOK ... Somewhat cooler for a day or two, but a drying trend seems possible later in the week and some days will then become quite warm especially for the inland south where highs could reach 16 C.

Forecasts for Britain

TODAY ... Some outbreaks of moderate rain in western England and Wales, moving north but staying mostly on the British side of the Irish Sea, highs reaching about 13 C. Further east some brighter intervals may develop after morning drizzle or low cloud, 12-14 C.

OUTLOOK ... Mild and frequently showery, fairly similar to the outlook for Ireland.

Forecasts for North America

Severe storms will erupt across the central plains states on this 40th anniversary of the major tornado event in 1974. The states most likely to see a tornado today will be Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, southern Illinois, and western Tennessee. Highs 20-25 C further south will fuel this outbreak, while cold air over the northeast will retreat somewhat into eastern Canada with widespread rain pushing east. The western states will be mild to warm and mostly dry, although weak systems are now moving on shore across B.C. and spreading to northwest WA. ... My local weather on Wednesday was partly cloudy with increasing high cloud and a high of 14 C.

M.T. Cranium · 04-04-2014 9:22am

Friday, 4 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Mostly cloudy but with some brighter intervals around mid-day, followed by showers and slight risk of a thunderstorm later this afternoon and evening. Highs 14-16 C.

TONIGHT ... Showers or periods of rain with risk of thunder, 10-15 mm rain likely by morning and quite mild with lows 8-10 C.

SATURDAY ... Morning heavy showers or periods of rain will be followed by partly cloudy to overcast conditions and further showers redeveloping in a mild southerly flow, highs 14-16 C.

SUNDAY ... Frequent showers, moderate south to southwest winds, lows about 10 C and highs near 14 C.

MONDAY ... Variable cloud, showers, some with hail and thunder, winds rather fresh from southwest veering to westerly by afternoon and evening, lows near 7 C and highs about 13 C. Wind gusts to 70 km/hr.

TUESDAY ... Breezy and somewhat cooler with passing showers, lows near 6 C and highs near 12 C.

OUTLOOK ... Dry and somewhat warmer again during the week, then turning cool with scattered showers by the following weekend.

Just briefly, the outlook in Britain is quite similar, and in North America the expected severe storms are continuing to head slowly east with heavy rains spreading into parts of the Ohio valley, lower Great Lakes and inland northeast states. Later today the highest risk of tornadic storms will be in the Carolinas and Georgia. ... My local weather on Thursday was overcast with showers and a high near 12 C.

M.T. Cranium · 05-04-2014 7:42am

Saturday, 5 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Heavier showers soon ending in east, then partly cloudy to overcast with more showers likely to develop, mild and humid with highs 14-16 C.

TONIGHT ... Overcast with fog or mist developing, frequent showers then periods of heavier rain, another 10-15 mm likely. Lows 8-11 C.

SUNDAY ... Cloudy with a few brighter intervals, showers at times, highs about 13-15 C.

MONDAY ... Rain tapering to showers, partial clearing late in the day, quite breezy or windy (WSW 40-70 km/hr) with lows near 7 C and highs 12-14 C.

TUESDAY ... Partly cloudy, showers more frequent in west and north, some chance of hail or thunder with those ... lows near 4 C and highs near 12 C. Winds fresh westerly at 40-70 km/hr.

WEDNESDAY ... Some isolated frost may develop early morning, lows -1 to +4 then sunny with cloudy intervals, highs 11-14 C.

THURSDAY ... A few showers, then gradual clearing but turning a bit cooler with highs 10-13 C.

FRIDAY to SUNDAY ... Temperatures near average, some risk of showers in north mainly, but could turn out reasonably dry in other regions, highs 11-15.

Will resume the Britain and North America forecasts in a day or two when there's any big developments -- my local weather on Friday was cloudy with a few sunny intervals and a bit cooler than recent days at 10 C.

M.T. Cranium · 06-04-2014 7:24am

Sunday, 6 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Heavy showers or periods of rain will gradually ease later this morning from west to east, followed by partly cloudy skies and perhaps a few isolated showers mainly in Connacht and west Munster by later afternoon. During the morning expect about 10-15 mm of rain, with winds southerly at about 50-70 km/hr veering southwest. Highs 13-15 C.

TONIGHT ... Showers or longer periods of rain, mild, moderate southwest winds 50-70 km/hr, lows 7-9 C.

MONDAY ... Rain tapering to showers, partial clearing late in the day, quite breezy or windy (WSW 40-70 km/hr) with highs 12-14 C.

TUESDAY ... Partly cloudy, showers more frequent in west and north, some chance of hail or thunder with those ... lows near 4 C and highs near 12 C. Winds fresh westerly at 40-70 km/hr.

WEDNESDAY ... Some isolated frost may develop early morning, lows -1 to +4 then sunny with cloudy intervals, highs 11-14 C. Rain spreading into west and north by late afternoon or evening.

THURSDAY ... A few showers, mostly early morning and heavier in north, morning lows 7-9 C then gradual clearing but turning a bit cooler with highs 10-13 C.

FRIDAY to SUNDAY ... Temperatures near average, some risk of showers in north mainly, but could turn out reasonably dry in other regions, highs 11-15.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... There are some hints of a rather cold pattern around Easter, but this is still a long way out and could change.

Not a lot happening in North America, rain spreading northeast through the central plains states towards the Great Lakes, and rather chilly east to northeast winds with that. My local weather is also rather showery with a high of about 10 C earlier on Saturday.

M.T. Cranium · 07-04-2014 8:50am

Monday, 7 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Some further outbreaks of moderate rain in southeast but this will be increasingly confined to Wexford and coastal Wicklow as drier, partly cloudy conditions spread in from west, followed by some further heavy showers and risk of thunder or hail especially inland west by mid-day and spreading to central counties by afternoon. Fresh and gusty westerly winds of about 50-70 km/hr will develop, highs about 11-13 C.

TONIGHT ... Variable cloud with passing showers, blustery westerly winds at about 50-70 km/hr. Lows 3-5 C.

TUESDAY ... Partly cloudy, showers more frequent in west and north, some chance of hail or thunder with those, and highs near 12 C. Winds fresh and blustery at times, westerly at 40-70 km/hr.

WEDNESDAY ... Some isolated frost may develop early morning, lows -1 to +4 then sunny with cloudy intervals, highs 11-14 C. Rain spreading into west and north by late afternoon or evening.

THURSDAY ... A few showers, mostly early morning and heavier in north, morning lows 7-9 C then gradual clearing but turning a bit cooler with highs 10-13 C.

FRIDAY to SUNDAY ... Temperatures near average, some risk of showers in north mainly, but could turn out reasonably dry in other regions, highs 11-15.
Overnight lows generally in 3-6 C range.

OUTLOOK ... Dry and seasonable temperatures at first next week, followed by cooler, unsettled weather around Thursday but improving gradually through the Easter weekend with showers increasingly confined to north.

Forecasts for Britain

TODAY will feature persistent heavy rain in parts of western England and Wales, this eventually spreading to eastern regions by this afternoon or evening, highs 12-14 C.

The outlook is then generally similar to Ireland with frequent showers and moderate westerly winds much of this week.

Forecasts for North America

About 20-30 mm of rain is expected to fall over much of eastern North America today with some sleet or snow mixed in around higher portions of the Great Lakes region and inland northeast. Some severe storms may develop in the southeast. Central regions will be in a broad northerly flow of cool, moist air and some scattered showers or drizzly light rain, temperatures generally a little below normal. Further west, dry and mild to warm for most, with a few scattered showers in central to northern B.C. and Alberta ... My local weather on Sunday was pleasant, partly cloudy and 14 C.

M.T. Cranium · 08-04-2014 7:10am

Tuesday, 8 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY will see gradual improvement in most regions with a rather cloudy and showery start to the day but increasing amounts of sunshine likely by afternoon and a fine evening, with winds decreasing from morning blustery conditions (westerly 50-70 km/hr), and highs of about 12 C.

TONIGHT could ger close to frost levels in the inland south under clear skies, but further north due to cloud and drizzle the lows will be milder at 5-7 C.

WEDNESDAY will continue partly to mostly sunny in the south, and mostly cloudy in the north with occasional light rain, highs near 15 C in the south and near 12 C in the north.

THURSDAY will bring intervals of light rain but this may only be much of a factor in the north as the front is weak and likely to dissipate over the southern half of the country during the mid-day hours, however, the cloud will hold temperatures in a narrow range between 7-9 C in the morning and 10-12 in the afternoon.

FRIDAY will see general clearing again and rather pleasant highs of 14 C.

The weekend is currently looking fair and settled in the south, cloudy with occasional showers in the north, and temperatures should remain close to normal values.

The latest guidance for next week continues this trend of near normal, rather bland weather except with an increase in wind speeds later in the week, and a slightly more unsettled trend by about Thursday, but so far the Easter weekend looks mainly dry if somewhat on the cool side.

My local weather on Monday was partly cloudy with a few morning showers and highs near 15 C.

M.T. Cranium · 09-04-2014 6:47am

Wednesday, 9 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Partly to mostly sunny across the south and some central, eastern counties, while more cloud is likely across parts of the west and north, although generally dry there also. Highs 12-15 C warmest inland southeast.

TONIGHT ... Rain will move gradually southeast after midnight but it should remain dry south of a Dublin to Galway line, with lows 4-8 C in the south and about 8-10 C in the north. Rainfalls only 1-3 mm.

THURSDAY ... The rain will gradually break up into more isolated showers in the north and central counties and may persist longest in the Dublin area but will generally be done by early afternoon after leaving just 1-3 mm accumulations, so parts of Munster could remain dry. Some sunshine will return during the afternoon and evening, but it will feel a bit chilly with highs only 11-13 C.

FRIDAY ... Rather chilly to start, isolated frost and lows -1 to +3 C, then mostly sunny and pleasant with light winds and highs of 12-14 C.

SATURDAY ... Except for some cloud and light rain near the north coast, the weather should remain fair (partly cloudy to sunny) and temperatures will be similar at 12-14 C.

SUNDAY ... Somewhat more cloud and moderate west to northwest breezes, isolated showers although many places staying dry, highs 11-13 C.

MONDAY ... Sunny intervals, morning frosts are possible inland south, generally lows will be near 3 C and highs near 12 or 13 C.

TUESDAY ... Partly cloudy and milder with highs 13-16 C.

OUTLOOK ... Some showers are likely mid-week although not very widespread or heavy, in moderate westerly winds, then a slight cooling trend towards the Easter weekend the way it looks at this point, but still close to seasonable normals at 11-14 C.

The forecasts for Britain would be generally similar to the above, and the main theme in North America is spreading warmth from western regions into central parts of the U.S., reaching the eastern regions on Thursday although today will continue to be somewhat on the cool side -- mostly dry for almost all regions except far eastern Canada where heavy rain will end later today. My local weather on Tuesday was cloudy with a few sunny intervals and mild with highs of about 14 C.

M.T. Cranium · 10-04-2014 7:49am

Thursday, 10 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Rather damp to start the day in the south, but somewhat heavier rain will move across central counties during the morning, reaching Leinster by mid-day and afternoon. Amounts will be generally small, 2-4 mm. Some clearing will develop mainly in Connacht and west Munster by afternoon, as the rain may be slow to end in Leinster (although drizzly by afternoon). Highs about 12-14 C depending on sunshine.

TONIGHT ... Clearing gradually with some mist and fog patches developing, isolated frost possible west-central inland, lows generally 3-5 C but could fall to near freezing in a few locations.

FRIDAY ... Cloudy at times during the morning but generally clearing and becoming sunny for most, highs 12-14 C.

SATURDAY ... Sunny intervals fading behind increasing cloud in the south, mostly cloudy with occasional light rain in the north, morning lows 3-5 C and highs about 12-14 C.

SUNDAY ... Variable cloud, isolated showers mainly west and north, lows about 3-6 C and highs 12-14 C.

MONDAY ... Partly cloudy, isolated showers, some sunshine at times too, highs near 14 C.

TUESDAY ... Possible morning frosts, mid-day sunshine, lows 2-5 C and highs near 13 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Cloudy with showers or periods of light rain, mild, lows about 7 C and highs about 14 C.

THURSDAY ... Mostly cloudy, showers with some hail or thunder possible, becoming rather breezy and cool with highs only 10-12 C.

OUTLOOK for EASTER WEEKEND (Friday 18th to Sunday 20th) ... At this point it's looking rather cloudy and breezy, not overly warm at 11-13 C each day, and probably some rain at times although not expected to be heavy. There is some chance of this outlook improving, especially in the south, if the jet stream co-operates by moving a bit further north.

... will return to some more detailed forecasts elsewhere tomorrow, meanwhile, my local weather on Wednesday was partly cloudy to sunny and mild with highs near 15 C.

Rooy · 10-04-2014 2:24pm

Thread views passed the 2 million mark today , well done MT ,that's a lot of forecasts read !

Tae laidir · 10-04-2014 4:43pm

Rooy wrote: »

Thread views passed the 2 million mark today , well done MT ,that's a lot of forecasts read !

And written!

M.T. Cranium · 11-04-2014 7:16am

Friday, 11 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Becoming partly to mostly sunny for most regions, although somewhat cloudier in parts of the north where eventually there could be some drizzle by afternoon. Highs generally 12-15 C.

TONIGHT ... Increasing cloud, some light rain at times in the north, lows about 7-9 C north and 5-7 C south.

SATURDAY ... Sunny intervals fading behind increasing cloud in the south, mostly cloudy with occasional light rain in the north, dying out as it moves further south, with highs about 12-14 C.

SUNDAY ... Variable cloud, isolated showers mainly west and north, lows about 3-6 C and highs 12-14 C.

MONDAY ... Partly cloudy, isolated showers mainly near north coasts, some sunshine at times too, lows 3-6 C and highs near 14 C.

TUESDAY ... Possible morning frosts, mid-day sunshine, lows 2-5 C and highs near 13 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Cloudy with showers or periods of light rain, mild, lows about 7 C and highs about 14 C.

THURSDAY ... Mostly cloudy, showers with some hail or thunder possible, becoming rather breezy and cool with highs only 10-12 C.

OUTLOOK for EASTER WEEKEND (Friday 18th to Sunday 20th) ... At this point it's looking rather cloudy and breezy, not overly warm at 11-13 C each day, and probably some rain at times although not expected to be heavy. There is some chance of this outlook improving, especially in the south, if the jet stream co-operates by moving a bit further north.

Forecasts for Britain will be similar to the above ... the main feature in North America is spring warmth spreading out of the desert southwest where highs will reach the low 30s, into the central plains where 25 C could be achieved. Further north, some rain and high elevation snow will become more widespread. The eastern regions today will continue rather cool with some outbreaks of light rain near warm fronts in the Great Lakes and inland northeast. Snow could develop tonight in border regions west of Lake Superior. ... My local weather on Thursday was very pleasant, sunny and about 14 C.

M.T. Cranium · 12-04-2014 7:45am

Saturday, 12 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

Guidance has changed for the middle to end of next week, as a more persistent ridge is now expected. This may postpone the earlier discussed cooling trend until the end of the Easter weekend, but with the somewhat changed pattern, there is now growing concern about rain on Easter Sunday.

TODAY will start out rather cloudy with a band of light rain that should gradually break up to isolated showers before sunshine develops by afternoon, somewhat earlier in the north and west than elsewhere. Highs will reach about 12 or 13 C.

TONIGHT will become partly cloudy with some clear intervals, lows 3-6 C.

SUNDAY will bring intervals of cloud and sun with passing showers at times, mainly in the west and north. Highs will reach 12-14 C.

MONDAY could start out rather chilly and with isolated frost in some central valleys, lows generally 2-5 C but as low as -1 or -2 in a few spots. The day will bring sunny intervals and highs 11-13 C.

TUESDAY will also be largely dry but somewhat warmer with lows 2-5 C again but highs 13-15 C.

WEDNESDAY will see some additional cloud at times, isolated showers, and highs about 14 C.

THURSDAY is now expected to be rather similar with partly cloudy skies, isolated showers and highs 13-15 C.

GOOD FRIDAY is likely to continue mild and showers will be isolated rather than widespread, with highs 14-16 C.

The EASTER WEEKEND will probably continue rather cloudy throughout, starting out pleasant on Saturday morning with intervals of cloud and sun, with showers mainly confined to the north and west, and highs 15-17 C. However, Sunday may then become overcast with periods of rain, and there is some risk of that rain being rather heavy in the south and east, as winds turn from southerly to a more easterly direction, highs 11-13 C.

FURTHER OUTLOOK calls for showers and a few more rather cool days before a warming trend towards the end of April.

Forecasts for Britain

Expect very similar trends to the above in most parts of Britain although it will be more frequently cloudy and showery in Scotland for this coming weekend. The developing pattern would favour heavier rain in the southwest on Easter weekend.

Forecasts for North America

A rather extensive storm system is developing over the central plains, allowing very warm air from the desert southwest to spread into the states south of Iowa and Wisconsin. From there north, bands of rain and even some snow will develop and snow will then move south behind the developing storm later in the weekend. The southeast will be fine and quite warm (this will include the site of the Masters, Augusta GA). My local weather on Friday was partly cloudy to sunny with highs near 15 C.

M.T. Cranium · 13-04-2014 7:57am

Sunday, 13 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY will start rather overcast, but by afternoon expect a few intervals of sunshine in places, with passing showers at times, mainly in the west and north. Highs will reach 12-14 C.

TONIGHT may be slow to clear, but any locations that do manage to shed their low cloud cover will probably see a slight frost by morning, otherwise, lows will be about 3-6 C.

MONDAY could start out rather chilly and with isolated frost in some central valleys, lows generally 3-6 C but as low as -1 in a few spots. The day will gradually brighten and may bring sunny intervals with highs 11-13 C.

TUESDAY will also be largely dry but somewhat warmer after a chilly start with lows 2-5 C with risk of local frost again, then highs 13-15 C.

WEDNESDAY will see some additional cloud at times, isolated showers, and highs about 14-15 C. Some patchy light rain may move south across the country by late in the day.

THURSDAY will start cloudy, with partial clearing to follow, showers becoming isolated then dying out, in a moderate westerly flow (more variable winds across the south), lows 5-8 C and highs 13-15 C.

GOOD FRIDAY is likely to continue mild and showers will be isolated rather than widespread, with highs 14-16 C.

The EASTER WEEKEND will probably continue rather cloudy throughout, starting out pleasant on Saturday morning with intervals of cloud and sun, with showers mainly confined to the north and west, and highs 15-17 C. However, Sunday may then become overcast with periods of rain, and there is some risk of that rain being rather heavy in the south and east, as winds turn from southerly to a more easterly direction, highs 11-13 C. After some rather strong east winds it's possible that a northward tracking low will then cause afternoon and evening winds to turn westerly.

FURTHER OUTLOOK calls for showers and a few more rather damp and misty, somewhat cool days (12-14 C) before a warming trend towards the end of April (16-20 C).

Forecasts for Britain

Expect very similar trends to the above in most parts of Britain although it will be more frequently cloudy and showery in Scotland for this coming weekend and on Thursday when Scotland will get into a stronger northwesterly wind flow. The developing pattern would favour heavier rain in the south and west on Easter weekend.

Forecasts for North America

A rather extensive storm system continues to strengthen over the central plains and Midwest, allowing very warm air from the desert southwest to spread into the states south of Iowa and Wisconsin. A few heavier thunderstorms may develop today in the Midwest, local rainfalls of 50 mms possible. Michigan and Ontario face snowmelt flooding in the next 2-3 days as heavy rainfalls develop. From there north, bands of rain and snow will develop and snow will soon begin to move south behind the developing storm later today. The southeast will continue to enjoy fine and quite warm sunshine to about 28 C (this will include the site of the Masters, Augusta GA). My local weather on Saturday was sunny with highs near 15 C.

M.T. Cranium · 14-04-2014 8:11am

Monday, 14 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY will be partly cloudy with some pleasant sunny intervals, also a slight risk of coastal low cloud and drizzle in parts of the north, and highs 12-14 C.

TONIGHT will see partly to mostly clear skies with slight risk of frosts well inland, lows generally 2-5 C but locally close to zero C.

TUESDAY will also be largely dry but somewhat warmer after a chilly start with lows 2-5 C with risk of local frost again, then highs 13-15 C.

WEDNESDAY will see some additional cloud at times, isolated showers, and highs about 14-15 C. Some patchy light rain may move south across the country by late in the day.

THURSDAY will start cloudy, with partial clearing to follow, showers becoming isolated then dying out, in a moderate westerly flow (more variable winds across the south), lows 5-8 C and highs 13-15 C.

FRIDAY is likely to continue mild and showers will be isolated rather than widespread, with highs 14-16 C.

The EASTER WEEKEND will probably continue rather cloudy throughout, starting out pleasant on Saturday morning with intervals of cloud and sun, with showers mainly confined to the north and west, and highs 15-17 C. However, Sunday may then become overcast with periods of rain, and there is some risk of that rain being rather heavy in the south and east, as winds turn from southerly to a more easterly then northerly direction, highs 11-13 C as low pressure moves north across Britain, with afternoon and evening winds likely to turn more westerly.

FURTHER OUTLOOK calls for showers and a few more rather damp and misty, somewhat cool days (12-14 C) before a warming trend towards the end of April (16-20 C).

Forecasts for Britain

Expect very similar trends to the above in most parts of Britain although it will be more frequently cloudy and showery in Scotland for this coming weekend and on Thursday when Scotland will get into a stronger northwesterly wind flow. The developing pattern would favour heavier rain in the south and west on Easter weekend.

Forecasts for North America

The warm, dry spell in the southeast will come to an end with heavy showers and thunderstorms, as waves of heavy rain spread east again, affecting much of the northeastern U.S. and Great Lakes region, while the Midwest and central plains turn much colder with rain turning to snow in places. The west will remain sunny and warm for one more day at least. ... My local weather on Sunday was sunny and warm with highs near 16 C.

Astronomy note: Full moon with a total eclipse will occur late tonight but the moon will be setting in Ireland just as the eclipse begins. With totality around 0700-0830 U.T. the total eclipse will be visible around midnight in my time zone, the question being whether cloud ahead of a slow-moving front will arrive too early for a good view. Regions further east in this part of the world have a very good chance of seeing the spectacle (but in the eastern time zone it will be closer to 3 to 4 a.m. local time.

M.T. Cranium · 14-04-2014 8:11am

Monday, 14 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY will be partly cloudy with some pleasant sunny intervals, also a slight risk of coastal low cloud and drizzle in parts of the north, and highs 12-14 C.

TONIGHT will see partly to mostly clear skies with slight risk of frosts well inland, lows generally 2-5 C but locally close to zero C.

TUESDAY will also be largely dry but somewhat warmer after a chilly start with lows 2-5 C with risk of local frost again, then highs 13-15 C.

WEDNESDAY will see some additional cloud at times, isolated showers, and highs about 14-15 C. Some patchy light rain may move south across the country by late in the day.

THURSDAY will start cloudy, with partial clearing to follow, showers becoming isolated then dying out, in a moderate westerly flow (more variable winds across the south), lows 5-8 C and highs 13-15 C.

FRIDAY is likely to continue mild and showers will be isolated rather than widespread, with highs 14-16 C.

The EASTER WEEKEND will probably continue rather cloudy throughout, starting out pleasant on Saturday morning with intervals of cloud and sun, with showers mainly confined to the north and west, and highs 15-17 C. However, Sunday may then become overcast with periods of rain, and there is some risk of that rain being rather heavy in the south and east, as winds turn from southerly to a more easterly then northerly direction, highs 11-13 C as low pressure moves north across Britain, with afternoon and evening winds likely to turn more westerly.

FURTHER OUTLOOK calls for showers and a few more rather damp and misty, somewhat cool days (12-14 C) before a warming trend towards the end of April (16-20 C).

Forecasts for Britain

Expect very similar trends to the above in most parts of Britain although it will be more frequently cloudy and showery in Scotland for this coming weekend and on Thursday when Scotland will get into a stronger northwesterly wind flow. The developing pattern would favour heavier rain in the south and west on Easter weekend.

Forecasts for North America

The warm, dry spell in the southeast will come to an end with heavy showers and thunderstorms, as waves of heavy rain spread east again, affecting much of the northeastern U.S. and Great Lakes region, while the Midwest and central plains turn much colder with rain turning to snow in places. The west will remain sunny and warm for one more day at least. ... My local weather on Sunday was sunny and warm with highs near 16 C.

Astronomy note: Full moon with a total eclipse will occur late tonight but the moon will be setting in Ireland just as the eclipse begins. With totality around 0700-0830 U.T. the total eclipse will be visible around midnight in my time zone, the question being whether cloud ahead of a slow-moving front will arrive too early for a good view. Regions further east in this part of the world have a very good chance of seeing the spectacle (but in the eastern time zone it will be closer to 3 to 4 a.m. local time.

M.T. Cranium · 15-04-2014 8:00am

Tuesday, 15 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Sunny with afternoon cloudy intervals, more frequent in north. Highs around 14-16 C although 12 C in onshore southeast breezes, some mist or fog could develop over outer coastal margins.

TONIGHT ... Partly cloudy to overcast, lows 4-7 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Increasing and thickening cloud, some light rain spreading into northwest around evening hours. Highs 14-16 C except near 12 C south coast and very close to seafront elsewhere.

THURSDAY ... Overcast, a bit cooler in moderate westerly winds with light rain at times, 3-5 mm likely in north, trace to 3 mm south. Lows 7-9 C and highs about 11-14 C.

FRIDAY ... Becoming partly cloudy with some decent sunny intervals, coastal low cloud or fog with drizzle possible mainly north of Galway. Lows 4-7 C and highs 12-15 C.

SATURDAY ... Variable cloud, except for low cloud or fog and drizzle near north and northwest coasts, lows 4-7 C and highs 13-17 C.

EASTER SUNDAY ... Increasing cloud, some chance of rain by afternoon and evening, lows 7-9 C and highs 11-14 C. Winds becoming east to northeast at about 40-60 km/hr.

MONDAY ... Periods of rain, fog and drizzle, with potential for 20-30 mm totals, temperatures steady near 10 C.

OUTLOOK ... Showery and rather cool for a few days then a warmer, drier interval to follow.

Forecasts for Britain

In general, a similar outlook to the above, heavy rains appear likely to spread in from the south on Easter Sunday and persist into Monday, heaviest falls about 50 mm in parts of southwest and Wales.

Forecasts for North America

Much colder in most eastern regions, temperatures falling to about freezing and rain changing to sleet then wet snow, some accumulations mainly on higher ground. Strong northerly winds developing. The milder southerly flow will continue for a while near the New England coast and up into eastern Canada. ... Further west, clearing and unseasonably cold to about the longitude of the central Dakotas to Kansas, turning warmer further to the west, but snow breaking out north of a new disturbance forming over the border regions near southern Alberta and northeast Montana. ... My local weather on Monday was pleasant with filtered sunshine and highs near 19 C but unfortunately it has totally clouded over since sunset and there is no view of the ongoing lunar eclipse (I can see a dim patch of light, going back out now to see if there's a break).

M.T. Cranium · 16-04-2014 6:57am

Wednesday, 16 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Increasing and thickening cloud, some light rain spreading into northwest at times but making more progress by the evening hours. Highs 14-16 C except near 12 C south coast and very close to seafront elsewhere.

TONIGHT and THURSDAY ... Overcast, a bit cooler in moderate westerly winds with light rain at times, 3-5 mm likely in north, trace to 3 mm south. Lows 7-9 C and highs about 11-14 C.

FRIDAY ... Becoming partly cloudy with some decent sunny intervals, coastal low cloud or fog with drizzle possible mainly north of Galway. Lows 4-7 C and highs 12-15 C.

SATURDAY ... Variable cloud, except for low cloud or fog and drizzle near north and northwest coasts, lows 4-7 C and highs 13-17 C. Warmest inland south-central counties.

EASTER SUNDAY ... Increasing cloud, some chance of rain by afternoon and especially evening then overnight to Monday, lows 7-9 C and highs 11-14 C. Winds becoming east to northeast at about 40-60 km/hr.

MONDAY ... Periods of rain, fog and drizzle into morning or mid-day hours, with potential for 20-30 mm totals, temperatures steady near 10 C. Some sunny breaks could develop across the west and that would raise temperatures to about 13 C.

OUTLOOK ... Showery and rather cool for a few days then a warmer, drier interval to follow.

The forecasts for Britain and North America follow on from yesterday's report, note that today will be more sunny in most of Britain. ... My local weather on Tuesday was mostly overcast and cooler (13 C) with some light rain at times.

M.T. Cranium · 17-04-2014 7:52am

Thursday, 17 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Mostly cloudy, outbreaks of light rain or drizzle but also some brighter intervals developing mostly in southern counties, highs near 12 C north to 15 C south. Rainfalls only about 2 mm where they happen at all, winds moderate westerly for the mid-day period (30-50 km/hr).

TONIGHT ... Partly cloudy, mist or fog patches, isolated frost could develop inland north, lows generally 2-5 C.

FRIDAY ... Cloudy with sunny intervals, isolated light rain or drizzle mainly west and north, highs 13-15 C.

SATURDAY ... Cloudy and mild, patchy light rain near west and north coasts, some sunshine possible mid-day central and inland south, lows 2-5 C and highs 13-16 C.

EASTER SUNDAY ... Cloudy, becoming rather windy (E-NE 40-70 km/hr), any morning sunshine will fade behind increasing cloud, followed by intervals of mostly light rain (5-10 mm) in Leinster, east Ulster, dry to overnight hours further west and north. Lows 7-9 C and highs 11-13 C.

MONDAY ... Further rain and drizzle, 10-20 mm possible, spreading west but not as heavy in parts of north, winds continuing moderate easterly, cool with temperatures steady 8-11 C.

OUTLOOK ... Frequent showers or periods of rain, winds eventually returning to a south to southwest direction mid-week, temperatures generally about 12 to 14 C. Somewhat drier and a larger temperature range later in the week.

Forecasts for Britain

Similar to the above, except that rain may spread into some parts of southern England around Saturday afternoon and evening before spreading further west to reach Ireland on Sunday. Otherwise, quite a similar pattern.

Forecasts for North America

Snow across the upper Midwest will decrease in intensity as the system begins to lose definition in its attempt to move into a sprawling area of cold high pressure over New England and eastern Canada. This high will continue to promote very cold temperatures that fall well below freezing at night, but flooding from earlier rain and snow-melt is still ongoing in many areas, so a rather nasty combination of flooding and freezing temperatures. Warmer in the south central states but not likely to rise much above 20 C, the real warmth remains far back to the west and that will persist for about 5-6 more days, while snow moves inland at higher elevations of the Pacific Northwest and B.C. ... My local weather on Wednesday was overcast with persistent light rain and chilly highs near 11 C.

M.T. Cranium · 18-04-2014 7:31am

Friday, 18 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Some sunshine will filter through extensive higher cloud, but there could be low cloud, fog or drizzle in some coastal areas, especially near the north coast. Inland it should warm up to about 14-16 C later on, coastal areas may remain closer to 12 C.

TONIGHT ... Somewhat more cloud than clear skies will keep overnight lows a bit higher, in the 3-7 C range. However one or two spots could drop to near freezing and there may be some fog, mist or drizzle near north and west coasts.

SATURDAY ... Cloudy and mild, patchy light rain near west and north coasts, some sunshine possible mid-day central and inland south, lows 2-5 C and highs 13-16 C.

EASTER SUNDAY ... Cloudy, becoming rather windy (E-NE 40-70 km/hr), any morning sunshine will fade behind increasing cloud, followed by intervals of mostly light rain (5-10 mm) in Leinster, east Ulster, setting in between mid-day and late afternoon, staying dry to the overnight hours further west and north. Lows 7-9 C and highs 11-13 C.

MONDAY ... Further rain and drizzle, 10-20 mm possible, spreading west but not as heavy in parts of north, winds continuing moderate easterly, cool with temperatures steady 8-12 C.

TUESDAY ... Overcast, light rain breaking up to more isolated showers and some afternoon sunshine developing, lows near 7 C and highs near 13 C.

OUTLOOK ... Frequent showers or periods of rain mid-week, winds eventually returning to a south to southwest direction later in the week, temperatures generally about 12 to 14 C. Somewhat drier and a larger temperature range later in the month although some recent guidance seems to postpone this warming trend into the first few days of May.

Forecasts for Britain

Similar to the above, although more direct sunshine likely today, and also the rain may spread into some parts of southern England around Saturday afternoon and evening before spreading further west to reach Ireland on Sunday. Otherwise, quite a similar pattern.

Forecasts for North America

Snow continues to push east across the upper Great Lakes but is becoming less intense as large areas of high pressure gain the upper hand, warmer air continues to make slow progress east from a source in the desert southwest where it continues to be very warm to hot (35 C in Phoenix). Heavy rain turning to mountain snow continues to push east through B.C. and eastern WA tonight and will reach Alberta and Montana by morning, setting off a late season snowfall event in the prairies and northern plains states over the coming weekend. ... My local weather featured some of the heaviest rain in these late stages of the normally rainy season that has been quite dry in general, but we seemed to be making up for it with rainfall rates of 30 mm an hour for the late afternoon. This made a real mess of the holiday weekend traffic. It was also quite cool at 9-10 C.

M.T. Cranium · 19-04-2014 7:38am

Saturday, 19 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Sunshine appears likely to win out again today, except perhaps in a few coastal areas, where some low cloud or fog could develop. For most, the sunshine will be somewhat filtered later by high clouds, more extensive in western counties, but it should be warm inland (highs 15-18 C) while some coastal areas stay a bit cooler at 12-14 C.

TONIGHT ... Clear patches will continue with cloud slowly building especially in the south, lows will be generally 2-5 C but could fall to frost levels locally in the inland north. Light winds or calm for most of the night, except near the south coast where an east wind will be noticeable.

EASTER SUNDAY ... Some sunshine may continue in parts of the west and north but cloud will rapidly increase in the south and east, followed by occasional light rain that will become heavier towards evening. Highs will range from 13-15 C north and west, to 10-13 C east and south, and east winds will add a chill once it clouds over, increasing to about 40-50 km/hr by late afternoon.

SUNDAY NIGHT into MONDAY ... Rain may become heavy at times in the south and amounts of 15-25 mm are possible, 5-15 mm north. Temperatures will be steady near 10 C and winds east to northeast, later southeast, 40-60 km/hr. A few places may see a bit of sunshine by afternoon (Connacht most likely) with highs responding to reach 15 C.

TUESDAY ... Cloudy with some sunny breaks, showers or periods of light rain, amounts generally 5-8 mm. Lows 6-8 C and highs 10-13 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Overcast with showers or periods of rain, highs near 14 C.

OUTLOOK ... Further showers and a slow improving trend, warmer by about the first few days of May.

Still expecting an earlier onset of the rain in Britain as it moves northwest out of France late today or tonight. ... North America gradually warming in most regions but southeast U.S. will see locally heavy rains ... my local weather on Friday was mostly sunny but quite cool at 11 C.

Happy Easter to everyone, will update the forecast to give a more precise idea of when you might expect to see rain moving in.

M.T. Cranium · 20-04-2014 7:00am

Sunday, 20 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Sunshine is likely to continue most of the day in all but the southeastern counties, and even there, it should remain sunny to mid-day then cloud will increase and start moving further west, to be followed by light rain that probably won't wet the ground until 4-6 p.m. in the southeast, 6-8 p.m. in the Dublin to Waterford region and after sunset in most other locations. Highs could reach 15-17 C in parts of the central and western counties, but may be held to 12-14 C near east and south coasts due to rather chilly sea breezes. However, all things considered, the day will be quite pleasant in most of the country. Winds will be moderate easterly (seems appropriate) at 30-50 km/hr by afternoon.

TONIGHT ... Mostly cloudy although northern counties could continue to have clear intervals. Rain over most of the southern and central counties could become rather steady and produce 10-15 mm by morning. Winds east to northeast 40-60 km/hr. Lows 8-10 C. Some fog or mist developing.

MONDAY ... Rain becoming more showery, followed by a few brighter intervals (parts of Ulster could remain dry and partly cloudy). Moderate east winds at about 40-60 km/hr. Highs 12-15 C.

TUESDAY ... Variable cloud, further showers, slight risk of thunder. Humid, a bit warmer with lows 8-10 C and highs 13-16 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Overcast, rain at times, highs near 14 C. Rainfalls about 10 mm with moderate south to southwest winds.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY ... Partly cloudy to overcast, frequent showers, cool with highs near 13 C.

OUTLOOK ... Some heavy rain is indicated for next weekend, hopefully that won't be too prolonged but it may break into several stages with more settled intervals between the heavy showers. Highs only 10-13 C. Beyond that, a warmer and drier interval is likely in early May.

Will update the other forecasts on Monday, except to mention that heavy rain will spread into southwest England this morning and possibly into south Wales about mid-day. My local weather on Saturday was overcast and cool with a bit of rain at times, 10-12 C. Happy Easter, enjoy the sunshine.

M.T. Cranium · 21-04-2014 7:32am

Monday, 21 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... A few bands of showery rain could become heavy in the south and also from north-central to west coastal counties. Light showers or drizzle will also occur, along with brief partly cloudy intervals when temperatures are likely to rise to around 14-15 C in places. Winds will continue rather brisk from a northeast veering to southeast direction at 40-60 km/hr. Feeling rather close due to the high humidity and rainfalls will vary from 3 to 15 mm with the heavier falls likely in west Munster.

TONIGHT ... Showers will subside to drizzle and fog, with lows about 7 C, and winds will continue from the east at about 30-40 km/hr.

TUESDAY ... Cloudy with a few brighter intervals, showery bands of rain may produce 5-10 mm, and humidity levels will be quite high with maximum temperatures of about 15 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Overcast, periods of rain (5-15 mm), lows 7-9 C and highs about 14 C. Winds will veer around to south then southwest at moderate speeds around 40-60 km/hr.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY ... Showery and cool days, temperatures in a rather narrow range 7-13 C. Winds may increase rapidly late on Friday from the southwest although the European model tracks the low further south which would lead to moderate east winds returning.

WEEKEND OUTLOOK ... According to some guidance, stormy conditions could develop with strong WSW wind gusts to 90 km/hr and heavy showers, hail and some risk of spot flooding as 30 to 50 mm rain falls over the weekend, mostly on Saturday. Temperatures will be cool, near 10 or 11 C. The European model is not as windy but would be just about the same for rainfall and temperature so there isn't much to choose really.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... A slow improvement is likely by the middle of the following week as May begins.

Forecasts for Britain

It will continue rather cloudy and damp with another interval of rain later today and tonight, a break for part of Wednesday then frequent showers or periods of rain from late Wednesday to the end of the weekend. Western regions will also experience the strong winds on Saturday that are in the forecast for Ireland.

Forecasts for North America

Some improvement in the southeast after the heavy rains, but a new disturbance is bringing some rather heavy showers and storms to the Ohio valley and inland southeast by later today. Warmer ahead of this front with highs to about 20 C. A second frontal system moving inland over the west coast will follow and prevent any cold air from seeping south of the Canadian prairies at least, but once that one arrives in the Great Lakes region later this week, colder air will make a return to parts of the U.S. ... Until then, it should stay near normal or a bit above normal in most places and quite warm in the far west. ... My local weather on Easter Sunday was cloudy with brief showers and a cool high of about 12 C.

M.T. Cranium · 22-04-2014 8:03am

Tuesday, 22 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Cloudy with a few brighter intervals, showery bands of rain moving in from the east may produce 5-10 mm, heavier amounts in that range more likely in east Ulster and north Leinster, and humidity levels will be quite high with maximum temperatures of about 15 C. Although it could be fairly dry in some places at first, eventually low cloud, mist and fog will begin to dominate, with moderate east winds of about 40-50 km/hr.

TONIGHT and WEDNESDAY ... Overcast, periods of rain overnight and at times tomorrow, (5-15 mm), lows 7-9 C and highs about 14 C. Winds will veer around to south then southwest at moderate speeds around 40-60 km/hr.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY ... Showery and cool days, temperatures in a rather narrow range from lows near 7 to highs of 13 or 14 C. Any sunshine would probably lead to thundery showers developing in a southeast breeze.

WEEKEND OUTLOOK ... No real surprise, but the European model was apparently ahead of the rest in anticipating a southerly track for the weekend low, and this will lead to a steady downpour on Friday night and Saturday at least in the south, probably also central counties, while further north it may just be showery. Amounts of 20-40 mm are possible, and temperatures will remain steady near 9 or 10 C, possibly reaching 12-14 C on Sunday if some clearing develops, but a few showers are likely to remain in the unsettled northeast flow, and southeastern counties could continue to see significant rainfalls.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... At this point, it appears that Monday to Wednesday of the following week (taking us to the end of April) could be quite chilly in a north-northeasterly flow of arctic origins. This could promote some rather wintry showers on high ground in the north, and a general chill with highs possibly failing to reach 10 C, with lows 2-4 C. Hail showers could be fairly widespread with some brief sunny intervals. This should eventually lead to a frost and then warming temperatures by end of the week.

Will resume the other forecasts tomorrow as the general themes from yesterday remain valid; my local weather on Monday was overcast but with the sun getting through at times and warming things up slightly to about 14 C.

M.T. Cranium · 23-04-2014 8:22am

Wednesday, 23 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Morning showers will continue to track steadily north into Ulster, followed by a pleasant morning interval of sunshine. That will be replaced around mid-day by gradually developing showers and the risk of a heavy thunderstorm with hail, most likely in counties near Limerick and Cork. Winds will be generally southeast to south at 30-50 km/hr. Highs 13-15 C.

TONIGHT ... Further showers, still a slight risk of thunder, mild. Lows 4-7 C.

THURSDAY ... Cloudy with sunny intervals, scattered showers, slight risk of thunder. Highs near 14 C.

FRIDAY ... Increasing cloud, chilly morning lows 2-5 C, then showers turning to a steady downpour by late afternoon or evening in a rising southeast wind at 40-70 km/hr. Chilly once the rain sets in, highs 11-13 C but temperatures only 7-9 C in the rain. This will continue overnight and into Saturday morning bringing 20-40 mm amounts.

SATURDAY ... Windy, cool, periods of rain continuing. Winds backing around to east then northeast 40-70 km/hr. Rather strong gusts at times in the south and east. Temperatures steady near 10 C.

SUNDAY ... Cloudy with a few sunny intervals, showers but rain could continue in the southeast, winds NE 40-70 km/hr. Lows near 6 C and highs near 12 C.

MONDAY ... Variable cloud, showers, moderate northeast to north winds, highs near 13 C.

TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY ... Cloudy, showers including some hail and wintry falls on northern hills. Highs 8-12 C. Winds NE to N 40-70 km/hr.

OUTLOOK ... Cool and unsettled to about the following weekend, then a gradual improvement.

Forecasts for Britain will be similar, today could produce some heavy thunderstorms in Wales and southwest England. The entire weekend looks quite wet in most of England.

North America continues rather warm in most southern regions but somewhat cooler air is mixing into the fast westerly flow around Iowa and Wisconsin. A more active pattern is developing with risk of strong to severe storms in the central plains states later this week and over the weekend. Snow may develop at higher elevations of the Rockies. ... My local weather on Tuesday was sunny with isolated showers, and chilly at 8-10 C. Eventually the showers developed into local hail and thunder showers by this evening and hail was pelting down outside a few minutes ago with lightning (which is basically why the forecast is a bit late). All quiet now however.

M.T. Cranium · 24-04-2014 7:43am

Thursday, 24 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Some sunshine this morning, more extensive cloud developing by afternoon with a few isolated showers which will tend to form along sea breeze boundaries inland. A cluster of heavy showers will move north into Kerry and Cork by mid-afternoon and may affect other parts of the west by evening although the track will then take this activity mainly offshore. Winds by late afternoon will be moderate southeast at 30-50 km/hr. Highs 12-15 C.

TONIGHT ... A few showers but clearing in parts of the east and north, somewhat colder than recent nights with lows 3-6 C (but 6-9 C in west Munster and coastal Connacht where cloud may persist).

FRIDAY ... Increasing cloud, chilly morning inland north with lows 2-5 C, then by mid-day showers moving inland from south coast turning to a steady downpour by late afternoon or evening in a rising southeast wind at 40-70 km/hr. Chilly once the rain sets in, highs 11-13 C but temperatures only 7-9 C in the rain. This will continue overnight and into Saturday morning bringing 20-40 mm amounts.

SATURDAY ... Windy, cool, periods of rain continuing. Winds backing around to east then northeast 40-70 km/hr. Rather strong gusts at times in the south and east. Temperatures steady near 10 C.

SUNDAY ... Cloudy with a few sunny intervals, showers but rain could continue in the southeast, winds NE 40-70 km/hr. Lows near 6 C and highs near 12 C.

MONDAY ... Variable cloud, showers, moderate northeast to north winds, highs near 13 C.

TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY ... Cloudy, showers including some hail and wintry falls on northern hills. Highs 8-12 C. Winds NE to N 40-70 km/hr.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... This colder, unsettled trend is now looking more robust and could be hard to overcome with signs of high pressure building over the far northern regions of the Atlantic and low pressure tracking to the south of Ireland.

Forecasts for Britain

Although timing will be later, the same sequence of events will lead to a wet and chilly weekend in most parts of England and Wales. Scotland may remain somewhat drier with just scattered or isolated showers. However, when it begins to turn even colder next week, Scotland may see some snow at higher elevations as true arctic air will reach about as far south as the central lowlands by Tuesday or Wednesday. Further south there may be sleet on higher hills but hail showers at lower elevations.

Forecasts for North America

Near normal temperatures and pleasant sunshine for many in the east, as a slow-moving rainfall producing front begins to spread cloud into the Great Lakes and Ohio valley and rain from Chicago west to about Kansas City. Some heavy falls are likely in Missouri and Arkansas. This system will push slowly east and will be followed by a stronger frontal complex now forming over the west coast, due to bring severe storms to the central plains and Midwest by the weekend. ... My local weather on Wednesday was partly cloudy and cool, but rain has developed since sunset. You may hear news reports of an earthquake in this region earlier this evening local time (6.6 on Richter scale) but it was only felt in a few areas locally as it was located close to the northwest tip of Vancouver Island.

M.T. Cranium · 25-04-2014 7:58am

Friday, 25 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

ALERT for strong winds and heavy rainfalls in parts of the south tonight and Saturday. Wind gusts to about 100 km/hr will develop near the south coast, and 70-90 km/hr in most other regions south of a Dublin to Galway line. Rainfalls of 20-40 mm are possible in the inland south and west, 10-30 mm elsewhere. This could lead to spot flooding especially during the late overnight hours and Saturday morning.

TODAY ... Isolated showers and some sunny intervals this morning, misty or even foggy at times in some parts of the east coast and higher elevations of east and south, then more extensive cloud likely by afternoon with rain spreading into Munster by late afternoon or evening. Winds increasing in the south to about 50-80 km/hr from the southeast. Other regions will stay fairly calm and dry for most of the afternoon and into the early evening. Highs about 13-15 C.

TONIGHT ... Windy with some heavy rain and possible thunder. Rainfalls of about 15-30 mm likely in the inland south and west, 10-20 mm elsewhere. Wind gusts to 100 km/hr south coast and 70-90 km/hr in central counties and near east coast, from the southeast backing to a northeast to north direction by morning in west Munster. Lows 7-9 C.

SATURDAY ... Mostly cloudy, further rainfall or heavy showers in strong northeast to north winds. Some clearing late afternoon or evening in the north. Moderate northerly winds 50-80 km/hr and highs 11-14 C.

SUNDAY ... Cloudy with sunny intervals, more isolated showers, possible isolated thundershowers in the west. Morning lows 5-8 C and afternoon highs about 14 C.

MONDAY-TUESDAY ... Some sunny intervals, isolated showers, highs may reach 16-18 C in parts of the south and central counties, 13-16 C north and east.

WEDNESDAY to FRIDAY ... A colder interval is likely with moderate northeast winds, some isolated showers and highs 10-12 C.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... Warmer and drier conditions now appear likely to develop as higher pressure builds up and cuts off the northeast wind flow.

Will update other forecasts around Sunday, concentrating on this approaching disturbance for today. Watch for updates ... My local weather on Thursday was overcast with some light rain at times, highs near 13 C.

M.T. Cranium · 26-04-2014 7:20am

Saturday, 26 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Bands of heavy showers will continue to circulate around the low pressure area which is tracking east to the south of Waterford this morning. In general, the strongest winds have already come and gone but most of the day will remain rather breezy (ENE backing to NNE 40-70 km/hr). The current location of rainfall bands will allow several dry hours this morning in parts of the inland east and central counties, but eventually most of the rain will retreat further south and change the location of this dry slot to the inland southeast. It may also fill in with more extensive cloud and further showers, so by afternoon there may be rain in most locations and highs of 12-14 C. Further rainfalls of about 10-15 mm likely. Watch for road flooding especially in Munster and parts of south-central Leinster.

TONIGHT ... Showers becoming less frequent and some clearing, although light rain could continue in the southeast. Winds decreasing to NE 30-50 km/hr and lows about 4-7 C.

SUNDAY ... Cloudy with sunny intervals, rather warm and humid with heavy showers or thunderstorms likely in parts of the inland west and south by afternoon. Highs 15-18 C.

MONDAY ... Hazy sunshine for some parts of the east, cloudy west, isolated showers or thunderstorms. Rather warm and humid, lows 7-9 C and highs about 16-18 C.

TUESDAY ... Showers or periods of rain with potential for 15-20 mm, lows 7-10 C and highs 15-17 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Showers (5-10 mm), turning colder in the north, highs between 13 C north and 16 C south.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY ... Colder with partly cloudy skies and isolated showers, risk of some hail or thunder, lows only 2-4 C and highs 9-13 C.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... Warming back to the mid-teens and some sunshine likely next weekend.

Forecasts for Britain

Strong winds and rain will move through southern England and Wales today with somewhat better conditions further north, highs about 12-14 C. There will be some improvement Sunday and Monday although a few heavy showers will develop both days, highs near 15 C. From about Tuesday on, the forecast outlook is similar to Ireland although even colder temperatures and wintry showers are possible in Scotland by about Thursday.

Forecasts for North America

A weakening system is bringing rain to New England while clearing sets in from about New York west to Saint Louis, with temperatures near average or about 15-18 C. There is a stronger frontal system forming over the far west that will eventually move out into the central plains states creating a large outbreak of severe storms peaking Sunday and Monday. This will move slowly east and bring another round of heavy rainfalls to the east coast by mid-week as the system collapses and loses its warm sector to an offshore low at that time. Meanwhile, the far west will slowly warm up once this system departs, after a rather chilly weekend with snow showers falling in some lower elevations of the Great Basin region. Even in Phoenix, the temperatures are set to drop from the 30s to the low 20s for a few days before recovering.

My local weather on Friday was sunny but continued rather cold at 9-10 C.

M.T. Cranium · 27-04-2014 7:08am

Sunday, 27 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Mostly dry to start with some sunshine, a few showers confined to parts of west Munster and north coast Ulster. By mid-day, a slow-moving band of heavy showers is likely to develop in a zone from about central Connacht to east Munster, and this activity may move southwest so if you're out and about, watch for active weather coming from the opposite direction to most other cases. There's some chance of thunder with this and localized heavy rainfalls to 20 mm, although other places could remain dry. Highs 14-17 C but temperatures could fall to about 12-13 during any prolonged rain.

TONIGHT ... Showers dissipating, ground fog or mist, lows 3-6 C.

MONDAY ... Variable cloud with an increasing chance of showers this time moving back from the southwest, but it may remain dry in parts of the north and east. Feeling quite warm, highs 14-17 C.

TUESDAY ... Widespread showers or periods of rain, lows 7-10 C and highs about 14 C. Moderate southeast winds developing.

WEDNESDAY ... Further showers, but a steady light rain over parts of the north, lows near 7 C and highs near 13 C.

THURSDAY ... Turning somewhat colder in the north and central regions, as northeast breezes develop, showers moving gradually into the south where it may remain a bit milder. Highs 9-13 C coldest in Ulster.

FRIDAY ... Partly cloudy, isolated showers and cool with risk of a morning ground frost, lows 1-4 C, highs 10-14 C.

OUTLOOK ... Turning rather warm again next weekend with some sunshine at times, followed by showers and near normal temperatures in the following week.

Check yesterday's forecast for any details on Britain or North America, a major severe storm outbreak is likely by Sunday afternoon and evening local time in states near Arkansas and Missouri. ... My local weather was cloudy with a few breaks, evening showers and continued very chilly at 8-9 C. Meanwhile it's snowing in southern Utah where I was enjoying 20 C sunshine in mid-March.

M.T. Cranium · 28-04-2014 7:53am

Monday, 28 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

Astronomy note: New moon occurs at 0614h Tuesday, and there will be an annular eclipse of the Sun across the far southern Indian Ocean.

TODAY ... Drizzly light rain should end later this morning in parts of the inland east and central counties. The sun will break through widespread cloud at times and away from the coasts it should warm up to about 15-17 C. This may lead to an outbreak of showers and possibly an isolated thunderstorm over parts of the inland south and west, with 10-15 mm potential in a few spots.

TONIGHT ... Misty or foggy again with low cloud but some clear spots, lows about 5-8 C.

TUESDAY ... Showers or periods of rain now seem likely to hold off to the west and may only make limited progress inland, so that some parts of the east and north could remain dry, if rather cloudy. Highs 13-15 C.

WEDNESDAY ... Rain becoming heavy at times, 10-20 mm potential, lows near 10 C and highs near 14 C.

THURSDAY ... Rain ending across the north with a colder northeast wind developing, but rain continuing in the south to afternoon then breaking up to showers. Highs near 12 C in the north, 14-16 C south.

FRIDAY ... Intervals of cloud and sun, isolated showers, cool with northeast breezes. Lows 2-6 C may promote isolated ground frost, and highs 9-13 C.

SATURDAY ... Sunny intervals, lows 1-4 C and highs 10-14 C.

SUNDAY-MONDAY ... Partly sunny and warmer, highs near 17 C.

OUTLOOK ... A good chance of a prolonged warmer, dry spell, with the potential of some readings near or above 20 C into next week.

Forecasts for Britain

TODAY will be cloudy with sunny intervals, isolated showers and relatively warm at 16 or 17 C (13-15 C in Scotland).

TONIGHT and TUESDAY should remain partly cloudy with isolated showers, lows near 5 C and highs near 15 C.

From there onward, the forecast scenario is similar to Ireland with widespread rain on Wednesday and Thursday, turning colder from early morning in Scotland on Thursday and this cooler air mass eventually moving south into all parts of Britain by Friday morning. It may be a sharper cold spell in eastern portions of Britain and most of Scotland but eventually all regions will start to warm up later in the weekend into next week.

Forecasts for North America

The severe storms will redevelop later today in states from Mississippi north towards Indiana, but may not be quite as violent as Sunday's outbreak. Further north, a heavy rainfall will intensify and move across most of the Great Lakes and Midwest regions with 25-50 mm amounts and strong east winds, also rather chilly at 8-10 C. Dry and cool further east ahead of this slow-moving frontal system which will have difficulty pushing its warm sector very far beyond the Ohio valley before it redevelops as a coastal low around mid-week. Meanwhile the Rockies and high plains remain cold and windy but this should slowly fade to milder weather mid-week, while the far west stays quite warm in a returning southeast to south circulation. My local weather on Sunday was cloudy with brief showers, highs near 13 C.

M.T. Cranium · 29-04-2014 7:46am

Tuesday, 29 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY will start out with some hazy sunshine although cloud may be more extensive in parts of the north, and by mid-day it could be as warm as 18-20 degrees in parts of the west and south, 14-17 C north and east. Rain is slowly approaching the west coast but may only move onshore in a few parts of Mayo and Donegal by late afternoon, as light showers or drizzle.

TONIGHT will become more overcast and light rain could spread about as far east as Sligo to east Cork, although still rather patchy. Mild with lows 8-10 C.

WEDNESDAY will find the rain continuing a slow eastward drift to reach the east coast by afternoon or early evening. The rain may become somewhat heavier in most regions with potential for 10-15 mm, and highs will range from 15 C west to 18 C inland east.

THURSDAY will be a rather wet day in most regions and it will turn somewhat colder from north to south, starting with Ulster in the late morning and ending with Munster during the evening, as winds turn to a northeasterly direction. The morning lows will be 9-12 C, then highs will stay in that same range in Ulster but reach 14-17 C further south before falling off to 9-12 C around afternoon or evening.

FRIDAY will be quite cool by comparison with partly cloudy skies and isolated showers in northeast breezes of 30-50 km/hr. Lows 3-6 C and highs 9-12 C.

SATURDAY will bring some sunshine with a few cloudy intervals more frequent in the east and north, as winds slowly turn more to the east then southeast, isolated ground frost possible with lows 2-5 C and highs around 12-15 C.

SUNDAY will become warmer with hazy sunshine, highs near 19 C.

OUTLOOK ... If the European model is correct, next week should remain warm and dry and it could reach the low 20s although some coastal areas could see fog or low cloud. Some other models agree at least in terms of dry and warmer than average, while a few models are holding this warm spell off for several days and would suggest cloud and showers for much of next week. The last time we had this split in the models, the solution was essentially what was suggested by the European model. But it doesn't always work out that way so we'll have to keep our fingers crossed on this warm, dry spell.

Forecasts for Britain and North America continue as suggested yesterday, with today's severe storm outbreak likely to be in Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas. ... My local weather was pleasantly sunny and near 14 C on Monday and we have highs near 23 C in our mid-week forecast thanks to a strong ridge that is steadily building.

M.T. Cranium · 30-04-2014 7:48am

Wednesday, 30 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Cloudy although a few brighter intervals this morning in eastern counties, as rain spreads slowly east to cover most regions by afternoon. Amounts of about 10-15 mm likely. Spells of heavier rain will develop mostly over north central counties spreading to Ulster. Rain becoming more showery at times in west Munster. Highs 14-16 C.

TONIGHT ... Rain, drizzle and fog, somewhat showery in south, but a steady downpour across the north with 10-15 mm further accumulations. Lows 8-11 C.

THURSDAY ... Bands of heavy rain drifting south followed by partial clearing from the north, with winds picking up from a northeast direction in Ulster and later in North Leinster. A further 10-15 mm rain likely in south and central counties, highs only 12-14 C for most and 14-17 C in south. Clearing rather rapidly by evening and turning much cooler.

FRIDAY ... Clear intervals, moderate northeast winds stronger near Irish Sea, isolated showers in this onshore flow but longer intervals of sunshine in west and south, morning lows 2-6 C with isolated ground frost inland, then a rather chilly day especially for eastern counties, highs 9-13 C.

SATURDAY ... Sunny intervals, some cloud may come and go but mostly of the higher variety allowing some sunshine through, with light to moderate winds turning more to the southeast. Morning lows once again near frost levels in a few places, 2-6 C, and highs recovering to 12-16 C.

SUNDAY-MONDAY ... Although high pressure is not going to be totally in charge, it looks to be a situation where cloud will be eroded each day by dry mid-level flow and weak dynamics, so for most, these days are likely to continue partly cloudy but with some patchy light rain possible near the west coast. It could however stay just offshore at times. Depending on how much bright sunshine develops, highs will be in the 14-18 C range. Nights won't be as chilly as the first part of the dry spell, except in one or two spots in the east perhaps.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... Weak systems from the central Atlantic will be trying to break down the rather weak blocking high to the east, the net result is likely to be a lot of cloudy but dry weather with the odd shower and possibly some rain in the north around mid-week, but also some brief sunny intervals most days, and temperatures staying pleasant if not quite as warm as we were hoping, but possibly 15-18 C. Also, the trend in models is "delayed but not denied" on this warmer dry spell, with signs that it may eventually develop in stages and peak around the 10th to 15th of May.

Will update Britain and N. America forecasts in a day or two, trends are continuing as described with the heaviest rain today in western parts of Britain and in New England, New York City to Washington DC and parts of the southeast. My local weather turned much warmer with sunshine and highs near 20 C on Tuesday.

M.T. Cranium · 30-04-2014 7:48am

Wednesday, 30 April, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Cloudy although a few brighter intervals this morning in eastern counties, as rain spreads slowly east to cover most regions by afternoon. Amounts of about 10-15 mm likely. Spells of heavier rain will develop mostly over north central counties spreading to Ulster. Rain becoming more showery at times in west Munster. Highs 14-16 C.

TONIGHT ... Rain, drizzle and fog, somewhat showery in south, but a steady downpour across the north with 10-15 mm further accumulations. Lows 8-11 C.

THURSDAY ... Bands of heavy rain drifting south followed by partial clearing from the north, with winds picking up from a northeast direction in Ulster and later in North Leinster. A further 10-15 mm rain likely in south and central counties, highs only 12-14 C for most and 14-17 C in south. Clearing rather rapidly by evening and turning much cooler.

FRIDAY ... Clear intervals, moderate northeast winds stronger near Irish Sea, isolated showers in this onshore flow but longer intervals of sunshine in west and south, morning lows 2-6 C with isolated ground frost inland, then a rather chilly day especially for eastern counties, highs 9-13 C.

SATURDAY ... Sunny intervals, some cloud may come and go but mostly of the higher variety allowing some sunshine through, with light to moderate winds turning more to the southeast. Morning lows once again near frost levels in a few places, 2-6 C, and highs recovering to 12-16 C.

SUNDAY-MONDAY ... Although high pressure is not going to be totally in charge, it looks to be a situation where cloud will be eroded each day by dry mid-level flow and weak dynamics, so for most, these days are likely to continue partly cloudy but with some patchy light rain possible near the west coast. It could however stay just offshore at times. Depending on how much bright sunshine develops, highs will be in the 14-18 C range. Nights won't be as chilly as the first part of the dry spell, except in one or two spots in the east perhaps.

FURTHER OUTLOOK ... Weak systems from the central Atlantic will be trying to break down the rather weak blocking high to the east, the net result is likely to be a lot of cloudy but dry weather with the odd shower and possibly some rain in the north around mid-week, but also some brief sunny intervals most days, and temperatures staying pleasant if not quite as warm as we were hoping, but possibly 15-18 C. Also, the trend in models is "delayed but not denied" on this warmer dry spell, with signs that it may eventually develop in stages and peak around the 10th to 15th of May.

Will update Britain and N. America forecasts in a day or two, trends are continuing as described with the heaviest rain today in western parts of Britain and in New England, New York City to Washington DC and parts of the southeast. My local weather turned much warmer with sunshine and highs near 20 C on Tuesday.

M.T. Cranium · 01-05-2014 7:09am

Thursday, 1 May, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Heavy rain with occasional thunder in eastern and northern counties this morning with showers in parts of the south and west. Although there will be a southward moving trend for this rainfall with a developing front, it will begin to fragment during the afternoon. Further rainfall amounts will be 10-20 mm in the east and north, 3-7 mm south and west. Highs 13-15 C south, temperatures steady 11-12 C further north.

TONIGHT ... Clearing except in south coast regions, lows 3-6 C but staying closer to 8 C in south. Rain may spread back into parts of the southwest towards morning.

FRIDAY ... Sunny intervals east and north, mostly cloudy south and west, occasional rain in west Munster. Considerably cooler with highs 11-13 C. Moderate northeast winds developing near Irish Sea, possible isolated showers over higher terrain in Leinster.

SATURDAY ... Parts of the central and northern, eastern inland counties will have a slight ground frost with lows 2-6 C, then sunny intervals east, cloudy west, further outbreaks of light rain at times. Highs 12-16 C.

SUNDAY ... Partly cloudy, somewhat warmer with lows 3-7 C and highs about 15 to 18 C. Rain may linger near west coast but could be forced back to west by afternoon.

MONDAY ... Partly cloudy, showers possible by late afternoon or evening in west coast counties, lows 4-7 C and highs 15-18 C.

TUESDAY ... Showers, mild, highs 15-17 C.

OUTLOOK ... Rather cloudy but rather slight rainfalls mainly west and north coast, some sunshine each day, near normal or slightly warmer than average temperatures, with chance of a warmer spell developing towards following weekend to mid-month.

My local weather on Wednesday was sunny and very warm, highs near 24 C.

M.T. Cranium · 02-05-2014 7:50am

Friday, 2 May, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... A slow clearing trend is approaching from the northeast, while rain is being held near the west coast in its attempt to push east. These two opposing trends will probably result in a lot of dry, cloudy weather with the best chance of any brighter intervals in east Ulster and north Leinster, and rain very gradually making inroads into west Munster. It will be noticeably cooler than recent days with highs 9-13 C north and east, 12-15 C south and west.

TONIGHT ... Rain may push slightly further east to cover parts of central counties, but it should stay cloudy and dry in most of Leinster, at least until well after midnight. Rain will tend to be drizzly and will lead to fog or mist. Rather cold in east Ulster and north Leinster (3-6 C) but otherwise lows 5-8 C.

SATURDAY ... Although the rain will be moving gradually northeast, it may begin to fragment as it tries to break down the wedge of dry air, with the result being an interval of light rain or drizzle but also some brighter periods, and a slow warming trend. Lows 5-8 C and highs 13-16 C.

SUNDAY ... Partly cloudy with isolated patchy light rain in west and north, warmer. Lows 7-10 C and highs 14-18 C.

MONDAY ... Continuing partly cloudy and rather warm, rain once again poised to move inland from west coast during much of the day, possibly making it to west-central counties by late in the day. Lows 7-10 C and highs 15-19 C.

TUESDAY ... Showers followed by an interval of heavier rain, mild. Lows near 10 C and highs near 17 C.

OUTLOOK ... Rather cloudy, occasional showers but also some warm sunny intervals, the chance of rain greatest in Ulster, Connacht, west Munster and midlands. Highs generally high teens to near 20 C.

Outlook for Britain

Today will be generally dry in most of Britain and cloud will break more readily there, but a few isolated showers or even sleety mixed showers on hills in Scotland could be encountered, mostly at higher elevations. Highs only 7-10 C in most regions to 11-13 C south. Tomorrow will also tend to be dry, and from then on, the patterns expected in Ireland will be found within about a half day or so in northern parts of Britain but the southeast may remain fairly dry with somewhat more sunshine, as this region will be closer to a weak high that will be situated over Belgium and Germany. Highs for most of next week in southern England will average 17-19 C.

Outlook for North America

A long interval of wet weather on the east coast that has created some massive flooding problems in some cases will now trend towards drier conditions by this weekend and it will warm up in those areas that have been running below normal. Very warm and dry weather will slowly give way to showers and thunderstorms in central regions. A very warm spell over B.C. and the northwestern U.S. will break down and be replaced by heavy showers and much cooler weather. ... Speaking of that, my local weather on Thursday was sunny and almost hot with a high of 28 C.

M.T. Cranium · 03-05-2014 7:56am

Saturday, 3 May, 2014

Forecasts for Ireland

TODAY ... Patchy light rain or drizzle with clouds slow to break, but we hope that there will be some brighter or even sunny intervals by mid-day and afternoon, with the remnants of the rain most likely to be drifting northeast into Ulster. Highs 13-16 C.

TONIGHT ... Mostly cloudy, some mist or fog patches and coastal drizzle, lows about 7-9 C.

SUNDAY ... Cloudy with some sunny intervals, a few more outbreaks of patchy light rain but these mainly around coastal margins, also a little warmer with highs 15-18 C.

MONDAY ... Starting out dry in the east but rain advancing from the west to cover most regions by afternoon or early evening. Warm before the rain arrives, morning lows 8-10 C and afternoon highs near 14 C west to 18 C inland east (could be closer to 16 C east coast due to onshore breezes).

TUESDAY ... Rain tapering to showers after about 10 mm falls, then some sunny intervals, lows near 9 C and highs near 16 C.

WEDNESDAY to FRIDAY ... Generally a partly cloudy to overcast period with near normal temperatures, highs about 15-17 C. Some showers each day but also some brighter intervals.

OUTLOOK ... The models are really fluctuating rather widely in the past two days but I continue to think we should see a more organized warm spell around mid-month.

The outlooks for Britain and North America from yesterday's forecast remain valid and my local weather on Friday was hazy and warm again (21 C) but with showers arriving in the evening and a cooling trend now underway.

Not a bank holiday here so Monday might be okay.

Your daily forecasts from Boards.ie weather forum (NO CHAT)

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