A WARM WELCOME FOR THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND
Forecasters say temperatures set to rise to 13C across country
TEMPERATURES are set to hit 13C today and forecasters are predicting it will remain mild for the rest of the St Brigid’s Bank Holiday weekend.
While there won’t be too much sun it will be mostly dry allowing the public to enjoy celebratory events planned nationwide.
But we have been warned to make the most of the unseasonably warm conditions as the weather is likely to take a turn for the worse next week.
Today’s expected 13C is way above average for the start of February. In previous years there has been frost and snow on St Brigid’s Day.
Forecasters at Met Eireann said there will be long dry spells for most of the weekend with high pressure continuing its influence, although it will be fairly breezy as well.
But it will become a bit more changeable as the week progresses as pressure drops bringing more in persistent and heavy rain at times.
CELEBRATIONS
But as the celebrations begin those taking part have been urged to wear proper clothing to meet the appropriate conditions, especially if attending events in the evening.
The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland also issued a joint water safety appeal, asking people to stay safe when in, near or on the water.
The organisations said water temperatures are still chilly, meaning cold water shock and hypothermia are risks that can affect those sea swimming or on a coastal walk.
To avoid this during swims, people should acclimatise to the water slowly to get used to the cold and warm up quickly upon exiting the water.
Water Safety Ireland’s deputy chief executive Roger Sweeney warned those going for walks along the shore to take extra care.
He said: “Winter storms have damaged many waterside walking routes that were considered familiar and safe but may now be hazardous.
“Erosion underfoot is not always obvious until it is too late.
“Tell children in your care to stay safe and away from edges.”
Among the events taking place this weekend is Brigid: Dublin Celebrating
Women, which honours the Celtic goddess with more than 60 thematic events across the capital showcasing women’s contributions past and present. Highlights include debut Brigid on Monday
the Parade, which runs from 4pm to 6pm. In Kildare, the home of Brigid, will honour the saint with Brigid 1500, a programme commemorating her life and legacy.
The 13th Century St Brigid’s Cathedral in Kildare Town is the site where the saint founded a nunnery in the 5th century.
Irish soprano Eimear Quinn will host a Concert for Brigid tomorrow evening in the ancient cathedral beginning at 7pm. Roscommon hosts
Brigid’s Awakening Festival in the National Famine Museum in Strokestown, with Cathy Jordan as headline act.
One of the country’s largest Brigid’s crosses will be installed at Tarmonbarry bridge, where it will remain as a tribute all through this month.
Offaly boasts the most unusual event with a multi-table Dungeons and Dragons gaming event in the 18th Century Charleville Castle.
The Hunt For Brigid will take place
at the Castle in Tullamore tomorrow morning.
In Cork, the Crawford Art Gallery is running a programme of mostly free events through the entire weekend and will end on Bank Holiday Monday.
Meanwhile, in Dundalk, where the saint is said to have been born, there is a celebration of her life in Brigid of Faughart, as ancient goddess and modern icon.