Weekend temperatures will drop to chilly 9C

THE mini-heatwave will fast become a distant memory as Ireland is to be colder than Iceland this weekend.

Parts of the country basked in temperatures of up to 27C on Monday but thermometer readings will drop sharply.

Met Eireann said some areas will climb no higher than 9C on Saturday – much chillier than the 12C expected in the Icelandic capital Reykjavik.

A spokesman said: “It will start off dry and mostly sunny in the southern half of the country.

“However, a band of rain will sink down from the north with cool, wet and breezy weather extending countrywide into the afternoon and evening.

“The top temperatures will be just 9C to 13C in fresh northwest winds. Rain will turn to showers on Saturday night as drier weather sets in.

“Lowest temperatures 6C to 9C, in moderate to fresh northwest breezes.”

Meanwhile, today will see a mix of sunny spells and showers. Highs will range from 12C to 17C, with a dry evening in store.

The forecaster added: “Most areas will be dry on Thursday night, though showers will develop across Atlantic counties later. Lows of 6C to 10C, in light to moderate northwest breezes. Tomorrow will be similar but winds will be much stronger.

“Sunny spells and scattered showers will occur during the morning and afternoon.

“They will be mainly confined to the northwest in the evening with sunshine to end the day.

“A breezy day, with moderate and gusty northwest winds, stronger near coasts. Highs of 12C to 16C, mildest in southeast.”

12C Expected temperature in Iceland’s capital Reykjavik this saturday