When you think of Ireland, you might picture rolling green hills, ancient castles, and perhaps a cozy pub filled with music. But there's another, more dramatic side to our gorgeous country – its stormy weather. Ireland's location at the edge of the Atlantic makes it a hotspot for some of Europe's most dynamic weather. Let's dive into the world of Irish storms, who names the storms in Ireland, And how many storms in Ireland this year? And with Storm Isha just left, now is a good time to explore.
The storms in Ireland are not just meteorological events; they are characters in the narrative of this beautiful land. And like any good story, they even have names. But who names these tempestuous characters?
Who names the storms in Ireland?
The task of naming storms in Ireland is a collaborative effort between Met Éireann, the Irish National Meteorological Service, and its counterparts in the United Kingdom - the Met Office, and the Dutch national weather forecasting service - KNMI. This practice, which began in 2015, aims to increase public awareness of severe weather events and ensure safety by making it easier to follow storm updates in the media.
How many storms in Ireland this year?
So 2024 has just started but December 2023 alone had 3 named stores. The storm season runs from September to August. According to Met Éireann, Ireland witnesses an average of 8 named storms in a season. This number not only speaks to the frequency of these events but also highlights the ever-present need for preparedness and resilience in the face of nature's unpredictability.
Are there lighting storms in Ireland?
While Ireland is more commonly associated with rain and windstorms, lightning storms do occur, though they are less frequent compared to other European countries. Met Eireann records show that lightning storms are more common during the summer months, bringing with them a spectacular, albeit fleeting, display of nature's power.
Why So Many Storms in Ireland?
The frequent storms in Ireland happen because of our geographic location. Situated at the edge of the European continent and facing the vast Atlantic Ocean, Ireland is in the direct path of weather systems that develop over the ocean. These systems are often intensified by the warm currents of the Gulf Stream, bringing with them a high frequency of storms, particularly during the winter months.
What storm is in Ireland now?
As for the storm that's currently over Ireland, well, Storm Isha arrived yesterday and it's a vivid reminder of the dynamic and sometimes harsh beauty of Irish weather. Met Éireann's latest updates indicate that Storm Isha is expected to bring gale force winds, highlighting the need for caution if you’re travelling this weekend.
And in case you find yourself outside when there’s a storm, be sure to wrap up and wear a waterproof jacket to keep you dry and warm. We know just the place 😊
