Climate

Ireland enjoys a temperate, maritime climate. Although the country lies between 51.5 and 55 degrees north, the temperature is kept mild by the Gulf Stream. Ireland is on the same latitude as the Canadian tundra, which is frozen over for most of the year. Were the Gulf Stream to change its course, Ireland would be plunged into a mini ice-age. The North Atlantic dictates the climate. Temperatures are equable and seasonal changes are gradual and prolonged. The air is moist and precipitation is generally caused by the movement of Atlantic frontal systems from the west. Strong winds are frequent, especially during winter when the temperature difference between the equator and the north pole is at its greatest. This causes extra turbulence in the atmosphere and Ireland lies in the path of many of the resulting depressions. It is said that in Dublin it is common to experience the four seasons in one day, such are the perceived sudden variations in climate. The climate, by and large, is relatively mild. A typical winter's day (November to February) is brisk (between 5 C and 10 C), with a risk of rain. A summer's day, by contrast, is warmer (between 14 and 20 C), with a risk of rain. You are likely to enjoy more sunshine in May and June than at any other time of year, and more cloudly days in December. In addition, l would like to say that nearly all the possible changes of the weather in one day can be seen in Ireland, it is true. You will see the gloomy, dark sky with downpour rain in the morning. In the noon you may admire the bright and cloudless sky putting all your parts of body to the tender sun. And in the evening, while walking and enjoying the lovely weather, you may suddenly get chilled to the bone by sharp gusts of the fierce wind (wondering where it had appeared from!?).