IRELAND WEATHER: Wind and possible thunderstorms expected later today

Dry and bright with sunny spells in many areas this morning. This afternoon a band of rain will extend from the west and move eastwards across the country.

However the rain not reaching eastern areas until evening time. The rain will be heavy at times with some localised downpours and isolated thunderstorms possible. It will become blustery or windy as south to southeast winds increase fresh to strong and gusty ahead of the rain, winds will reach near gale force at times along coasts.

Highest temperatures of 13 to 17 degrees.

Rain will clear eastern areas tonight with dry and clear weather in most areas overnight. Some patches of mist and fog will form as southerly winds ease light to moderate, but winds will stay strong along Atlantic coasts.

Lowest temperatures of 5 to 8 degrees, colder in isolated spots in Leinster and Munster.

Pollen forecast 

Low on Wednesday and Thursday.