Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rain warning for three western counties, cautioning residents in Kerry, Galway, and Mayo to prepare for potentially hazardous weather conditions on Monday afternoon and evening.
The rainfall alert, which came into effect at 2pm and will remain in place until 10pm, warns of heavy and persistent rain that could result in localised spot flooding, reduced visibility, and disruptions to travel.
The national forecaster stated that affected regions may experience “heavy rain with very strong, gusty southerly winds near the coast“, creating additional risk for coastal communities and road users. Travellers in the region are advised to exercise caution due to slippery road surfaces and the likelihood of surface water.
Mixed Outlook for the Rest of the Country
While the west braces for potential downpours, the rest of the country is set to enjoy drier conditions, particularly in northern and western areas, where sunny spells are forecast during Tuesday afternoon. Only isolated showers are expected outside the affected counties, according to the latest forecast from Met Éireann.
Despite the brighter outlook in some areas, winds are set to pick up later in the day. Southwesterly breezes will become fresh to strong, with gales anticipated along Atlantic coastal areas, prompting caution for marine and coastal activities. Temperatures will remain mild, ranging from 13°C to 18°C on Monday.
Extended Weather Forecast: Tuesday to Wednesday
Tuesday is expected to remain breezy, with a blend of sunshine and scattered showers across the country. Temperatures will dip slightly, reaching between 12°C and 16°C, and will be coolest in the west and northwest, where moderate to fresh and gusty westerly winds will persist.
By Wednesday, the forecast suggests a continuation of unsettled weather, with a mixture of sunny spells and occasional showers. The day will become cloudier at times, especially in the west and southwest, but no weather warnings are currently in place for midweek. Highs are predicted between 11°C and 16°C, again accompanied by moderate to fresh westerly winds.
Travel and Safety Advice
Residents in Kerry, Galway, and Mayo are urged to stay informed by monitoring the Met Éireann warnings page and to take necessary precautions during the active weather warning window. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and avoid waterlogged roads where possible.
The warning follows a trend of increasingly frequent weather alerts in Ireland, as extreme conditions become more common due to climate-related changes. Authorities continue to encourage preparedness, particularly in regions prone to flooding.