Ireland is often referred to as the Emerald Isle because of its lush green valleys and hills. The beauty of its countryside is largely due to its temperate climate and frequent rainfall. In general, both north and south Ireland endure chilly winters but enjoy balmy summers. However, the only thing you can guarantee with the weather is that it will be unpredictable.
Atlantic
- The Atlantic Ocean determines Ireland's climate -- both in the north and south. The moderating effect of the Gulf Stream, and prevailing winds from the southwest Atlantic, means that it has a mild climate, without the extremes of other counties at similar latitude. The weather is characterized by relatively gentle winters and changeable summers. While the island may be split into Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland, the weather sees no borders and both countries share similar climatic conditions.
Temperatures
- The average annual temperature is in the region of 48 degrees Fahrenheit. January and February are the coolest months with July the warmest. In winter the average is 45 F, while that can rise to 61 F during a couple of months in summer. Very rarely, temperatures can reach 86 F. The middle and east of the country have slightly more extreme swings, which can mean average variations of between 36 F in winter and 66 F in summer. The temperature falls below 32 F for about 40 days annually inland, but only 10 days on the coast. While the east coast will only experience snow or sleet an average of 10 days per year, the mountains may experience more than a month of icy conditions.
Sunshine
- Those in search of sunshine should visit in May and June, when Ireland gets between 5 and 6 1/2 hours of night, with 18 hours of daylight. December is the dullest month with bright sunshine of less than two hours. The country gets an average of between 1,100 and 1,600 hours of sunshine a year with the southeast blessed with the most rays. The annual average is around 3 to 4 hours of sunshine a day.
Rain
- Rain is a common complaint in Ireland, with showers between half and two thirds of the year. The west experiences the most wet days, especially on higher ground, with an average of 225 a year recording at least 0.04 inches of rain. In the east, rain falls an average of 150 days a year. Average annual rainfall varies between 30 inches in the east to 110 inches in the mountains. The wettest months tend to be December and January, while April and June are the driest. The rain is rarely heavy, ranging from 0.04 inches to 0.08 inches an hour, though the odd thunderstorm can take that up to a rare 10 inches an hour.
Wind
- Ireland, like any island, tends to have its blustery days by the sea. Average annual wind speed varies from a gentle 9 mph in the east and middle of the country, to a breezy 16 mph in the northwest. Strong winds tend to be more frequent in winter than in summer. The coast is buffeted by the strongest gusts, particularly in winter, but the hills and mountains near the sea provide shelter for those inland. Gales only hit inland areas an average of twice a year, though some coastal areas, particularly in the north, can endure as many as 50 days a year.
