Met Éireann issues major update on ‘monster storm’ that could hit Ireland

Just in time for Halloween

The country is preparing for a rather dramatic shift in weather conditions as Met Éireann has warned that rain will return this weekend, with mixed conditions expected to continue into next week.

The past few days have been unusually calm, with just the occasional shower, allowing people to gradually ease into autumn.

However, when looking further ahead, things aren't looking too great come the end of the month, as weather models are starting to show signs of a potentially large and significant Atlantic storm set to hit Ireland right in time for Halloween.

Long-range maps from WXCharts show a major low-pressure system swirling across the Atlantic, appearing to target Ireland directly, per The Irish Mirror.

The image shows the entire country engulfed in rain alongside powerful gusts of wind.

In the case that the system is officially named, it could become Storm Bram, making it the country's second named storm of the season.

According to the models, the storm is expected to arrive on Sunday, October 26, with its effects lasting through Tuesday, October 28.

However, it is essential to note that long-range models are subject to change, as even the slightest shift in weather patterns could drastically alter the timing, path, or intensity of the storm.

Met Éireann is also monitoring the system.

The extended range forecast for the week of Monday, October 27 to Sunday, November 2 reads: "It's likely to turn more unsettled by week 3, with low pressure dominating. There's the potential for heavy rain, showers and strong winds at times, but interspersed with some drier and brighter spells. Overall rainfall amounts will be a little above normal, while temperatures will generally be around average."

The national forecaster already has a day-by-day breakdown in place: "Tuesday will be mainly dry and mostly cloudy with patches of mist and drizzle, especially during this morning. A few bright intervals may develop through the day. Highest temperatures of 12C to 15C with light easterly breezes.

"Wednesday will continue mostly cloudy and mainly dry with patches of mist and drizzle and with a few bright or sunny intervals. Highest temperatures of 13C to 16C with light east to northeast breezes.

"Thursday and Friday will both be mainly dry with a good deal of cloud and a few bright intervals. Patchy drizzle and some patches of mist are possible. Highest temperatures of 13C to 16C with light, occasionally moderate east or southeast breezes.

"On Saturday morning, rain will develop in the west and southwest and will gradually spread northeastwards through the afternoon and evening along with fresh southeasterly winds. Highest temperatures of 12C to 15C.

"On Saturday night, rain will continue in the east and north. Showers will follow from the southwest on Sunday. Lowest temperatures of 10 °C to 12 °C.

"On Monday, there will be further showers. They will gradually clear to the east. The weather will be mixed through mid-week with rain or showers at times."