Ireland to Experience Temperature Drop Amid Polar Vortex Development

Ireland is set to experience a major temperature drop this week as a polar vortex develops. A polar vortex forms every autumn, leading to extremely cold air over the North Pole and having global weather impacts.

While early November has seen relatively mild temperatures, forecasters now warn that this could change as soon as this week. A polar vortex occurs when cold air above the North Pole contrasts with warmer air further south, driving stratospheric winds.

This typically strengthens the polar jet stream, bringing milder air from the Atlantic into Ireland. However, if the jet stream is influenced, it can lead to some of the coldest weather conditions of the year. Experts remain divided on whether November will continue with settled conditions.

Cathal Nolan of Ireland’s Weather Channel noted that some models suggest a potential short but sharp colder spell toward the end of next week. Other models predict more settled, benign weather before conditions become mixed later in the month.

The current Met Éireann forecast predicts dry conditions for the coming weekend, with temperatures slowly starting to drop. Friday will see patchy light rain or drizzle alongside occasional sunny spells, with temperatures ranging from 9 to 12°C.

Temperatures are expected to fall as the evening progresses, with isolated showers and temperatures dropping as low as 2°C, likely the coldest in the south. Saturday will bring mist and fog that may not clear until midday in some areas, with temperatures ranging from 7 to 11°C.