September was warmest on record for 11 years

Last month was the warmest September on record for up to 11 years in some parts of Ireland, Met Éireann reported today.

During the first half of the month, temperatures were up to three degrees higher than average in some areas, with Malin Head experiencing the warmest September since 1971.

Temperatures of almost 25 degrees were recorded in some areas on September 3rd and 4th, making these the warmest days of the month.

However, the good weather did not last into the second half of the month. Despite the very sunny first week, the overall figures showed last month was the dullest September in most areas for up to eight years.

Met Éireann notes there were three to five ground frosts recorded at inland stations during the final fortnight of September, with air temperatures falling close to freezing on the night of the 24th.

In fact, many stations recorded their lowest September air and ground temperatures for between ten and 20 years that day.

In terms of rainfall, the East and the Midlands fared best. Only three-quarters of the September average rainfall was recorded in these areas, while coastal areas in the west and south experienced rainfall that was slightly above normal.

The average number of wet days across Ireland varies from about 150 days a year along the east and south-east coasts, to 225 days a year in parts of Munster and Connacht. Last month there were ten wet days in the Dublin area compared to 21 at Valentia Observatory.

There is better news for this week. Met Éireann is predicting a very mild and dry week, with temperatures a few degrees above average for this time of year. A spokesman said the widespread cloud cover over Ireland at the moment will hopefully lift to produce a very pleasant and mild few days.