Weather to Improve for Halloween After 70mph Winds Batter Northern Ireland
After a period of strong winds and heavy rain on Thursday evening, Halloween night across Northern Ireland is expected to remain mostly dry. Severe gusts and rainfall earlier in the week led to cancellations and rescheduling of several Halloween events on Wednesday and Thursday.
Weather Warnings and Conditions
The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning for wind from 1pm to 11pm on Thursday, covering all six counties of Northern Ireland. Wind speeds reached up to 70 mph in higher and coastal areas, particularly along the eastern shore.
Forecast for Friday
Looking ahead, the Met Office predicts improved conditions with sunnier spells in eastern regions on Friday. Western areas are likely to experience more clouds and intermittent heavy showers during the late morning and early afternoon.
- Expected maximum temperature: around 13°C
- Perceived temperature may feel cooler due to wind and residual moisture
Impact on Halloween Festivities
Derry, known across Europe for its large Halloween celebrations, will face mixed weather on Friday. Visitors can expect a blend of rain, cloud, and wind, with fewer showers inland and more frequent ones along coastal zones.
“The city’s annual Halloween festival, which usually draws over 100,000 visitors, saw several events disrupted by the stormy conditions.”
Author’s Summary
After powerful winds swept through Northern Ireland, calmer and sunnier weather is expected for Halloween, though scattered showers may still affect western and coastal areas.