Status orange weather warning issued

IT'S sunny over Mayo again this morning but things are set to change around the country

A status orange weather warning has been issued, with very heavy and thundery downpours this afternoon (Monday). According to forecasters, it looks like Mayo might escape this time.

Met Éireann has issued a thunder warning for Connaught, Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Louth, Offaly, Westmeath and Meath

There will be very heavy and thundery downpours in places today, with localised flooding, especially in midland and northwestern areas.

Many areas will be dry, with some hazy sunshine, but very heavy and thundery downpours will develop in some parts this afternoon and evening, with parts of north Leinster, central and west Ulster and parts of east Connaught most at risk. 

Tomorrow, Tuesday, will be dry in most areas, with some hazy sunshine. Scattered showers will occur, especially in parts of the east and north, and there is a risk of thunder, mainly in Ulster.

Wednesday will be mainly dry, with a mix of cloud and some hazy sunshine, but a few scattered showers possible. It will be very warm and humid, with maximum temperatures of 18 to 24 or 25 Celsius.

Thursday will be mainly dry, with some hazy sunshine, but with a good deal of cloud. Later Thursday, a spell of persistent rain will develop along west and southwest coasts, spreading countrywide on Thursday night.

Friday will be mostly cloudy, with occasional outbreaks of showery rain in most parts, but clearer, fresher weather, with showers, will extend gradually from the Atlantic.

Looking ahead to next weekend and next week: Temperatures will be closer to normal once again and the weather will be changeable and unsettled, with some dry spells, but rain at times also. Early indications are that this more unsettled trend will continue into next week.