'Heavy showers' of rain this weekend as cyclone moves in

The sizzling temperatures enjoyed in Tipperary over the past few weeks are set to dip considerably this weekend with heavy showers forecast in some parts of the country over the weekend.

The heavy rain which fell over the county last night was followed by dry cool temperatures this morning but conditions nationwide are set to change dramatically today, with temperatures taking a nosedive and heavy downpours.

A large cyclone in the Atlantic heading towards Ireland is expected to bring heavy rain, gusty winds and low temperatures.

Thursday saw Ireland sizzle with highest temperatures reaching 26C in places but top temperatures will only reach 21C today.

A forecaster said: "Today will start out cloudy but mostly dry with any lingering overnight rain soon clearing. Showers will develop early along the west coast, some will be heavy.

"During the late morning and early afternoon these showers will start to extend eastwards.

"Highest temperatures will be 18C to 21C. Winds will be mainly light to moderate southerly, occasionally fresh and in the afternoon will veer westerly in the west."

More rain is on the way on Friday night, with the east and the north due to be battered by heavy showers but there will be some clear spells also.

Met Eireann revealed: "Drier weather will develop towards morning in the south and west. Lowest temperatures 9C to 12C with light to moderate variable winds becoming westerly in direction and fresh at times."

Saturday will see a mix of sunny spells and scattered showers but it will feel fresher and cooler than recent days with highest temperatures of just 15C to 18C. Sunday morning will start off rainy but it will clear to reveal sunshine with some scattered showers.

The northwest will experience the most frequent showers. Highest temperatures of 19C to 21C with moderate west to southwest winds.

Looking ahead to next week, the national forecaster predicts widespread showers on Monday but temperatures are set to get warmer again.