Meteorological Autumn Arrives with Heavy Showers Across Cork

• The first day of meteorological autumn has brought a definite seasonal shift to Cork today, with fresh westerly winds and widespread heavy showers replacing summer warmth as temperatures drop to just 14 to 17 degrees.

The change in seasons is unmistakable across Cork this morning, with passing heavy showers and a notably fresh westerly wind marking 1st September's transition to autumn.

Both Met Éireann and Cathal Nolan from Ireland's Weather Channel confirm widespread showers for Cork and Munster today, heavy at times with occasional sunshine between downpours. While thunder activity is expected further north in Connacht and Ulster, Cork will see longer breaks between showers with some sunny spells. Temperatures will reach just 14 to 17 degrees with moderate west to southwest winds.

Tonight will see a mix of clear spells and scattered showers, with light winds allowing patches of mist and fog to form. Temperatures will drop to between 7 and 10 degrees across Cork.

Tuesday offers a brief respite with mostly dry conditions and scattered showers becoming isolated by evening. Temperatures will recover slightly to 15 to 19 degrees in light southwesterly winds.

However, both forecasters warn of heavy rain arriving Tuesday night into Wednesday, with the southern half of the country bearing the brunt of the downpour. Cathal Nolan specifically warns of a risk of spot flooding in southern areas during Tuesday night's heavy rain.

Wednesday morning will start cloudy and wet across Cork, with heavy rain gradually clearing eastwards through the day, followed by sunny spells and scattered showers. Temperatures will remain cool at 14 to 17 degrees.

Thursday looks to be the pick of the week, with mostly dry conditions and just the odd passing shower. Morning sunshine is expected, though some showers may develop during the afternoon. Temperatures will reach 15 to 18 degrees.

The weekend forecast remains uncertain. Currently, the most likely outcome appears to be rain risk along the west coast with drier but cloudy conditions elsewhere, though temperatures could potentially reach 20 or 21 degrees if the warmer model proves correct.

For those planning outdoor activities in Cork this week, Tuesday afternoon offers the best window before the heavy rain arrives Tuesday night. Thursday also looks promising for any outdoor plans.

Pollen levels will remain low on Monday and Tuesday, offering relief for hay fever sufferers, while the solar UV index stays at moderate levels.