Finglas Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Ireland

Climate

Finglas is characterized by a temperate oceanic climate, greatly influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The weather is generally mild throughout the year, with warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in January, the coldest month, range from 2.2°C (36°F) to 7.2°C (45°F), while average temperatures in July, the warmest month, range from 13.3°C (56°F) to 19.4°C (67°F). Finglas experiences significant rainfall year-round, with an average of 741 millimeters (29 inches) of precipitation annually.

Average Weather Year Round

January: Cold and wet, with average temperatures hovering around 4.7°C (40°F). Expect frequent rain and possible snowfall.

February: Slightly warmer than January, with average temperatures rising to around 5.6°C (42°F). Rainfall remains common, but snowfall becomes less frequent.

March: The start of spring brings milder temperatures, averaging around 7.8°C (46°F). Rainfall continues, but sunshine becomes more prevalent.

April: Spring continues, with average temperatures increasing to around 9.4°C (49°F). Rainfall remains steady, but the days begin to lengthen.

May: May marks the transition to summer, with average temperatures reaching around 12.8°C (55°F). Rainfall gradually decreases, allowing for more sunny days.

June: The beginning of summer brings warm and pleasant weather, with average temperatures rising to around 15.6°C (60°F). Rainfall remains infrequent, with sunshine dominating the days.

July: The warmest month of the year, with average temperatures peaking at around 17.4°C (63°F). Sunshine is abundant, and rainfall is at its lowest.

August: Similar to July, August offers warm and sunny conditions, with average temperatures holding steady at around 16.7°C (62°F). Rainfall remains minimal.

September: Autumn arrives, bringing cooler temperatures averaging around 14.4°C (58°F). Rainfall increases slightly, but sunny days are still common.

October: Temperatures continue to drop, averaging around 10.6°C (51°F). Rainfall becomes more frequent, and winds pick up.

November: The coldest month before winter, with average temperatures dipping to around 6.7°C (44°F). Rainfall remains common, and strong winds become more frequent.

December: The start of winter brings chilly temperatures, averaging around 4.4°C (40°F). Rainfall and wind continue to be common, and occasional snowfall is possible.

Average Temperature over the Year

Finglas, located in Dublin, Ireland, experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature is approximately 9.5°C (49°F). During the summer months (June-August), temperatures average around 15-16°C (59-61°F), creating a pleasant climate with ample sunshine. Winters (December-February) are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging between 4-6°C (39-43°F). The lowest temperatures typically occur in January and February, when the average minimum temperature drops to around 1-2°C (34-36°F).

Monthly Temperature Variations

The average temperatures in Finglas vary slightly throughout the year. The warmest month is July, with average temperatures reaching up to 17°C (63°F). The coldest month is January, when temperatures average around 4°C (39°F). During spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), the temperatures gradually transition from the colder winter months to the warmer summer months. In spring, average temperatures range from 6-12°C (43-54°F), while in autumn they range from 10-15°C (50-59°F).

Cloud Types and Patterns in Finglas, Ireland

Finglas, Ireland experiences a wide range of cloud formations due to its temperate climate and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The most common cloud types include cirrus, cumulus, stratus, and nimbus. Cirrus clouds are thin, feathery, and composed of ice crystals, often appearing as streaks or tufts high in the sky. Cumulus clouds are puffy and detached, resembling cotton balls or clouds of smoke. Stratus clouds are flat and uniform, often covering the entire sky and resulting in overcast conditions. Nimbus clouds are dark and produce precipitation, such as rain, snow, or hail.

Influence of Synoptic Patterns on Cloud Cover in Finglas

The distribution and types of clouds in Finglas are influenced by larger-scale synoptic weather patterns. During periods of low pressure, the weather is often unsettled, leading to increased cloud cover and precipitation. Conversely, high-pressure systems bring stable conditions, resulting in clear skies or patchy cloud cover. Additionally, the proximity of Finglas to the Atlantic Ocean means that maritime air masses often bring moisture-laden clouds, particularly during westerly winds. These clouds can lead to drizzle, showers, or more persistent precipitation, depending on the strength of the air mass and the presence of other synoptic features.

Variability and Seasonality

Precipitation in Finglas, Ireland exhibits significant variability throughout the year. The wettest months are typically October through January, with average monthly rainfall exceeding 80 mm. During these months, frequent rainfall and occasional heavy downpours characterize the weather patterns. In contrast, the driest months fall between April and June, with average monthly rainfall below 60 mm. During this period, Finglas experiences drier conditions, with less frequent rainfall and generally lower precipitation amounts.

Annual Distribution and Trends

On an annual basis, Finglas receives a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging around 800 mm per year. This rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with no distinct dry or wet seasons. However, there is a slight trend towards higher precipitation levels in the autumn and winter months compared to the spring and summer. In recent decades, Finglas has experienced a gradual increase in annual precipitation, with slightly more rainfall observed in recent years compared to long-term historical averages.

Long-Term Rainfall Patterns

Rainfall in Finglas, Ireland, has been relatively consistent over the past few decades. According to Met Éireann, the average annual rainfall from 1981 to 2010 was approximately 750 mm. This rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with no particularly wet or dry months. However, there is some variability in rainfall amounts from year to year. For example, in 2010, Finglas received over 1,000 mm of rainfall, while in 2018, the rainfall was closer to 500 mm.

Potential Impacts of Climate Change

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on rainfall patterns in Ireland. Met Éireann predicts that Ireland will experience more frequent and intense rainfall events in the future. This could lead to an increase in flooding and other water-related hazards. Additionally, climate change could also lead to changes in the seasonal distribution of rainfall. For example, summers may become drier, while winters may become wetter. These changes would have a significant impact on Finglas and other areas of Ireland.

Snowfall in Finglas, Ireland

Finglas, a suburb of Dublin, Ireland, experienced significant snowfall on January 24th, 2023. The snowfall began in the early hours of the morning and continued throughout the day, accumulating to a depth of approximately 10 centimeters. Temperatures throughout the snowfall period remained below freezing, causing the snow to settle and create a blanket of white across the area.

The snowfall caused widespread disruption to daily life in Finglas. Schools and businesses were closed, and transportation services were severely impacted. The weight of the snow caused some tree branches to snap, and several roads were blocked due to snowdrifts. Emergency services worked tirelessly to respond to calls for assistance, and the community came together to help clear snow from sidewalks and driveways.

Average Hours of Sunshine in Finglas, Ireland

Finglas, a suburb of Dublin, Ireland, experiences an average of 1,489 hours of sunshine annually. This figure is slightly below the average for Ireland, which is 1,601 hours per year. The sunniest months in Finglas are May, June, and July, with an average of 7 to 8 hours of sunshine per day. The least sunny months are December and January, with an average of only 3 to 4 hours of sunshine per day.

Despite the relatively low average number of sunshine hours, Finglas still enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. The winters are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 4 to 9 degrees Celsius. The summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 21 degrees Celsius. Finglas is also protected from the harsh Atlantic winds by the Wicklow Mountains, which helps to create a relatively sheltered climate. As a result, Finglas residents can enjoy the outdoors throughout the year, regardless of the weather conditions.

The Moon in Finglas, Ireland

Finglas, a suburb of Dublin, Ireland, offers a unique vantage point for moon observation. With its relatively low light pollution compared to the city center, Finglas provides a clear view of the night sky. During full moons, the lunar orb appears as a bright, glowing sphere, casting an ethereal glow over the landscape. The craters and mountains on the moon’s surface become visible, creating a mesmerizing sight. Stargazers can set up their telescopes or simply enjoy the celestial display with the naked eye in parks such as Albert College Park or Johnstown Park.

The moon’s appearance from Finglas varies throughout the month. During new moons, the moon is not visible, as it lies between the Earth and the Sun. As the moon waxes, it appears as a thin crescent, gradually growing into a half-moon and then a gibbous. The full moon is the most prominent phase, when the entire lunar disk is illuminated and visible. During waning phases, the full moon gradually diminishes until it becomes invisible again at the new moon. Finglas residents can marvel at the constant transformation of the moon, witnessing its cyclical journey across the night sky.

Average Humidity Levels

Finglas, Ireland experiences moderate humidity levels throughout the year. The average annual humidity ranges from 75% to 85%, with the highest levels occurring during the winter months from November to April. During this time, the average humidity can reach up to 90%. In contrast, the summer months from May to October tend to have lower humidity levels, averaging around 65% to 75%. The lowest humidity levels are typically observed in May and June.

Factors Influencing Humidity

The humidity in Finglas is influenced by several factors, including its proximity to the Irish Sea, which contributes to higher humidity levels. The wind direction also plays a role, with winds blowing from the ocean bringing more moisture. Additionally, the time of day affects humidity levels, as the air tends to be more humid in the early morning and evening hours due to condensation. Seasonal patterns are also evident, with higher humidity levels during the winter months when temperatures are lower.

Wind Statistics and Patterns

Finglas is located in the northeastern coastal region of Ireland, which experiences a temperate climate with prevailing southwesterly winds. The average wind speed in Finglas is approximately 5 m/s (11 mph), with stronger winds more common during the winter months. Wind direction varies throughout the year, but westerly winds dominate during the winter, while easterly winds become more prevalent during the summer. The area is also occasionally affected by severe storms and depressions, particularly during the autumn and winter months, which can bring high winds and gusts exceeding 15 m/s (34 mph).

Impacts on Energy Generation and Transportation

The strong and consistent winds in Finglas provide significant potential for wind energy generation. The area is home to several wind farms, which contribute to Ireland’s renewable energy targets. The wind also plays a role in mitigating air pollution by dispersing pollutants. However, the variable nature of the wind can pose challenges for transportation and infrastructure. High winds can cause road closures, flight delays, and power outages, especially during severe weather events. Additionally, the wind can impact building design and construction practices, as it can exert significant forces on structures.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Finglas offers the most pleasant weather, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The average temperature in July is around 16°C (61°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring the local parks, attending outdoor concerts, or enjoying a picnic by the scenic Royal Canal. However, it’s worth noting that Finglas experiences intermittent rain throughout the year, so be prepared for occasional showers even during the summer months.

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Finglas brings a burst of color and life to the city. As the temperatures gradually rise, the parks come alive with blooming flowers, and the trees start to bud. The average temperature in May is around 13°C (55°F), making it comfortable for walking tours or cycling around the area. Spring is also a great time to visit the Finglas Heritage Centre and learn about the rich history of the neighborhood. Do keep in mind that the weather in Finglas can be unpredictable, with occasional cold spells or windy days, so packing layers of clothing is advisable.

Potential for Solar Energy in Finglas, Ireland

Finglas, a suburb located in the northwest of Dublin city, possesses significant potential for solar energy utilization. Dublin enjoys ample sunshine, with an average of 3.9 peak sunshine hours per day. This makes the area suitable for photovoltaic (PV) systems, which convert sunlight directly into electricity. Additionally, Finglas has abundant rooftops on residential and commercial buildings, providing ample space for solar panel installations.

Challenges to Solar Energy Adoption in Finglas

Despite the potential for solar energy, Finglas also faces certain challenges in adopting this renewable energy source. One hurdle lies in the high upfront investment costs associated with installing PV systems. This can be a deterrent for homeowners and businesses with limited financial resources. Another challenge is the fluctuating nature of solar energy, as it depends on weather conditions. To mitigate this, battery storage systems can be employed, but these also come with additional costs. Furthermore, the aesthetics of solar panels on rooftops may not be universally appealing, leading to potential neighborhood resistance.

Esker Ridges

Finglas is characterized by a series of prominent esker ridges, which are elongated hills formed by glacial deposition. These eskers run through the area in a southwest-northeast direction and have a significant impact on the landscape. The most notable eskers in Finglas include the Finglas Esker and the Prospect Hill Esker. The Finglas Esker extends from the Royal Canal to the Tolka River, while the Prospect Hill Esker rises to an elevation of 123 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

River Tolka Valley

The River Tolka flows through Finglas, creating a deep valley that divides the area into two distinct sections. The Tolka Valley is a fertile plain, historically used for agriculture, while the higher ground to the north and south is primarily residential. The Tolka River has also played a significant role in the industrial development of Finglas, with several flour mills and other industries established along its banks in the past. Today, the Tolka Valley is a popular recreational area, with parks, walking trails, and sports facilities located along its course.

Dublin Airport (DUB)

Dublin Airport, located approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) northeast of Finglas, is the nearest and most convenient airport for travelers. It is the largest and busiest airport in Ireland, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. DUB operates as a hub for several airlines, including Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and Etihad Airways. The airport features two terminals with a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services. Ground transportation options from the airport include taxis, buses, and rental cars.

Other Nearby Airports

While Dublin Airport is the closest, there are other airports within a reasonable driving distance of Finglas. Belfast International Airport (BFS) in Northern Ireland is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) from Finglas. It is a smaller airport compared to DUB but offers a limited number of flights to destinations within the UK and Europe. A third option is Cork Airport (ORK), located approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) southwest of Finglas. ORK is the second-largest airport in Ireland and provides flights to domestic and international destinations. However, due to the longer travel distance, Dublin Airport remains the most accessible choice for travelers based in Finglas.

Historical Significance

Finglas, an ancient settlement in North Dublin, Ireland, boasts a rich historical tapestry dating back centuries. During the Viking era, Finglas served as a strategic hub, with its name deriving from the Norse words “finna” (meadow) and “gil” (stream). The town was first established in the 9th century and later became home to a significant monastery founded by St. Canice in the 6th century. Finglas Castle, built by the Anglo-Normans in the 12th century, stands as a testament to the town’s past as a defensive outpost. Through the centuries, Finglas played a pivotal role in Irish history, witnessing numerous battles, invasions, and cultural shifts.

Modern Development

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Finglas underwent significant urban development. The construction of large-scale housing estates led to a rapid population growth, transforming Finglas into a bustling suburban community. Despite these changes, the town has managed to preserve its historical charm, particularly in the Finglas Village area. Today, Finglas boasts a vibrant mix of old and new, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and contemporary living. The town is home to a diverse population, with a strong sense of community and a commitment to its heritage.