Mayo set for midweek washout as conditions turn unsettled

Mayo looks set to brace for a wet and blustery spell as conditions deteriorate from Tuesday, with heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms forecast.

Tuesday morning is expected to get off to a dull and overcast start, with persistent outbreaks of rain spreading across the county.

The rain will turn heavy at times, leading to a thoroughly damp morning for commuters and road users.

However, conditions are set to become more changeable into the afternoon, with the rain clearing to give way to sunny spells and frequent heavy showers.

Some of these showers may bring hail, while isolated thunderstorms cannot be ruled out.

Temperatures will reach highs of between 9 and 11 degrees, with moderate to fresh southwesterly winds, gusty at times, veering westerly and strengthening as the rain clears.

Looking further ahead, the national outlook points to a mixed and unsettled pattern continuing.

Tuesday night will remain wet, with widespread showers feeding in on fresh to strong northwesterly winds.

There is also the possibility of wintry showers developing, particularly on higher ground, as temperatures dip to lows of between 1 and 4 degrees.

Motorists are advised to take extra care on the roads, particularly during periods of heavy rain and in blustery conditions, while those in upland areas should be mindful of the risk of colder, wintry bursts overnight.