Weekend Weather Outlook: Summer Conditions Remain Elusive

Cork can expect a typical summer weekend with a mixture of sunshine and scattered showers, as Met Éireann forecasts dry spells alongside occasional light rain across Munster over the coming days.

Tonight will see patchy rain, mist and drizzle spreading from the west, with humid conditions and temperatures dropping to between 13 and 16 degrees. Light to moderate southwest breezes will accompany the unsettled conditions.

Friday promises a cloudy start with patchy light rain and drizzle, particularly affecting morning commuters on routes like the N40 and M8. However, conditions will improve significantly during the afternoon as cloud begins to break up, giving way to sunny spells. The evening looks particularly promising with lots of sunshine expected and mostly dry conditions. Temperatures will reach a pleasant 17 to 21 degrees with moderate westerly winds.

Cathal Nolan from Ireland's Weather Channel noted the regional variations, particularly for today's start:

"It's a dry start to the day across the country, with even some pleasant spells of sunshine for some, especially through much of Munster, south Leinster and some parts of the Midlands."

Weekend weather will follow a familiar Irish summer pattern. Saturday brings a mixture of sunny spells and scattered passing showers, with the showers mainly affecting the northwest and west early in the day before moving eastward through the afternoon. Cork residents planning outdoor activities at venues like Páirc Uí Chaoimh or along the Lee walkway should expect temperatures between 17 and 20 degrees.

Sunday offers similar conditions with plenty of dry weather and a mix of sunshine and scattered passing showers. Northern areas may see more persistent rain, but Cork and the wider Munster region should enjoy largely dry conditions with temperatures remaining steady at 17 to 20 degrees.

The extended forecast provides some encouragement for those seeking more settled summer weather. Monday should remain largely dry with sunny spells, particularly in the east and south, before cloud increases from the west later in the day.

Cathal Nolan offered hope for August:

"There are some tentative signs now emerging that we may see high pressure build back closer to Ireland to start the month of August, with something a little more summer like possible at that stage."

Tuesday and Wednesday look more promising, with plenty of dry weather and sunshine expected despite occasional patches of light rain and drizzle. Temperatures will also climb, reaching 19 to 24 degrees by Wednesday, finally offering the warmer conditions many have been waiting for.

Met Éireann has issued a moderate pollen forecast for Friday and Saturday, with a moderate to high solar UV index expected in any sunshine. Those planning outdoor activities should take appropriate precautions.

For Cork commuters and weekend planners, the message is clear: keep the umbrella handy but don't cancel outdoor plans, as dry spells will outnumber the showers.