Met Éireann Forecasts Two Weeks of Dry, Warm Weather as High Pressure Dominates Ireland
Met Éireann has issued a significant update to its long-range forecast, predicting a prolonged period of unusually dry and settled weather for Ireland, with high pressure expected to dominate for approximately two weeks and temperatures potentially rising into the high teens or even the low 20s Celsius — a prospect that has been widely welcomed after a wet and unsettled start to spring.
The forecast, attributed to a persistent area of high pressure blocking the usual westerly weather systems that bring rain to Ireland, signals the prospect of a sustained warm spell that could bring some of the best weather the country has seen at this time of year in recent memory. Extended dry spells of two weeks or more are relatively unusual in April, making the forecast particularly noteworthy for a nation that has endured a difficult winter and spring and is in need of some meteorological good news.
Background
Ireland's spring weather is typically characterised by a mix of sunshine and showers, with settled periods often short-lived. The country's position on the western edge of Europe, exposed to Atlantic weather systems, means that prolonged dry spells are relatively rare and are usually associated with the establishment of a blocking high pressure system — often the Azores High, which can extend northwards from its usual position in the mid-Atlantic to cover Ireland and the British Isles, deflecting the rain-bearing westerly winds that are the norm for this part of the world.
The 2026 spring has been particularly challenging, with a wet and unsettled period following a difficult winter. Farmers across the country have been dealing with waterlogged fields, and the hospitality and tourism sectors have been hoping for an improvement in conditions to boost the crucial summer season. Against this backdrop, Met Éireann's forecast has been received with considerable relief and anticipation, with many businesses already reporting an uptick in bookings in response to the improved outlook.
Key Developments
Met Éireann's extended range forecast indicates that scarce rainfall is expected across the country for the next two weeks, with temperatures gradually rising as the high pressure becomes more established. Some forecasters have suggested temperatures could reach the low 20s Celsius in sheltered areas, which would be exceptional for April. The forecast is expected to boost outdoor activities, tourism, and the hospitality sector, with bookings for outdoor events and rural accommodation already reported to be rising in response to the improved outlook.
The warm spell is also expected to provide a significant boost to Irish agriculture, with farmers able to get onto fields that have been too wet to work for weeks. The dry conditions will allow spring planting to proceed and give crops already in the ground the warmth and sunshine they need to establish. Water supply authorities have noted that while the dry spell is welcome, a prolonged period without rainfall could eventually put pressure on reservoirs and groundwater levels, particularly in the east of the country, and have urged the public to use water responsibly.
Why It Matters
A prolonged period of warm, dry weather would be a significant boost for Ireland's economy, particularly for the tourism and hospitality sectors, which have been under pressure from rising costs and the broader economic uncertainty generated by the Iran war. The psychological impact of good weather on a population that has endured a difficult few months should not be underestimated either — there is a reason that a spell of sunshine in Ireland generates a level of national excitement that would seem disproportionate to observers from sunnier climes. The forecast also has implications for Ireland's energy sector, as warm, dry weather reduces demand for home heating and increases solar energy generation, providing some relief to households struggling with soaring energy bills.
Local Impact
For communities across Ireland, the prospect of two weeks of warm, dry weather is a genuine cause for celebration. Outdoor events, festivals, and sporting fixtures that have been planned for the coming weeks will benefit enormously from the improved conditions. The tourism sector, which has been working hard to capitalise on the staycation boom driven by the Iran war, will see a further boost as the good weather encourages people to get out and explore the country. For farmers, the dry spell offers a much-needed opportunity to catch up on spring work that has been delayed by the wet conditions of recent months — a welcome respite after one of the most challenging starts to the agricultural year in recent memory.
What's Next
Met Éireann will continue to update its forecasts as the high pressure system develops. The public is advised to make the most of the fine weather while it lasts, as extended settled spells in Ireland can be unpredictable. For the latest forecast, see Met Éireann and Irish Star.
