Video Forecast: Rain Threat Looms Over Cork's All-Ireland Final Bid at Croke Park

Cork supporters heading to Dublin for today's All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final should pack their rain gear, with Ireland's Weather Channel warning of wet conditions for the historic clash against Tipperary at Croke Park.

Meteorologist Cathal Nolan delivered a special forecast this morning from West Cork's Beara Peninsula, focusing exclusively on weather conditions for the 15:30 throw-in. The outlook suggests overcast skies with rain expected throughout the morning in Dublin, with temperatures reaching between 17 and 20 degrees according to Met Éireann.

Cathal Nolan, Ireland's Weather Channel:

"At the moment, in Dublin, there's overcast conditions. There are some outbreaks of rain expected over the next couple of hours."

While conditions may improve slightly as match time approaches, supporters are being advised to prepare for wet weather throughout the afternoon. The forecaster indicated there's a possibility the rain could ease off for the game itself, though showers remain a risk. Met Éireann is warning that some of these showers could be heavy, with mainly cloudy conditions and light to moderate northerly winds expected.

Cathal Nolan:

"As we get towards match time, there's a possibility that it dries up for the game itself. However, there is still the risk of one or two showers during the course of the game. So have the ponchos ready, have the rain jackets ready."

The unsettled conditions could play into Cork's hands as they seek to end their 20-year All-Ireland drought. Weather experts suggest the wet conditions may favour the Rebels' more physical, defensive style over Tipperary's traditionally free-flowing attacking approach.

Despite the forecast, Nolan remained upbeat about the day ahead, insisting the weather wouldn't dampen spirits for the thousands of Cork supporters travelling to Dublin or gathering in the fan zone on Leeside.

Cathal Nolan:

"It's not going to dampen our spirits, it's not going to dampen the day itself. Have a brilliant time at the match, wherever you're watching, whether you're up in Croke Park or whether you're down on Leeside in the fan zone."

The meteorologist concluded his forecast with best wishes to manager Pat Ryan and the Cork senior hurling team as they bid to bring the Liam MacCarthy Cup back to Leeside for the first time since 2005.

For those making an evening of it in Dublin, Met Éireann warns that showers or longer spells of rain will continue tonight, turning heavy at times with possible spot flooding. Overnight temperatures will remain mild at 13 to 15 degrees. The UV index will be high in any sunshine breaks, though opportunities for sun exposure appear limited given the mainly cloudy conditions.