Ballycastle Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Ballycastle, Ireland

Ballycastle is a picturesque town located on the northern coast of County Mayo, Ireland. It experiences a maritime climate, greatly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, which brings mild temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year. The weather in Ballycastle is characterized by its changeable nature, with frequent weather systems moving in from the west.

Temperature

Ballycastle enjoys mild temperatures due to its coastal location. The average annual temperature in Ballycastle is around 10°C (50°F). The warmest months are July and August, with average highs of 17°C-20°C (63°F-68°F). The coolest months are January and February, with average lows of 3°C-5°C (37°F-41°F). Snowfall is rare in Ballycastle, but when it does occur, it tends to be light and doesn't usually settle for long.

The table below provides an overview of the average monthly temperatures in Ballycastle:

Rainfall

Ballycastle receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being October through January. The average annual rainfall in Ballycastle is approximately 1,200 millimeters (47 inches). The prevailing westerly winds bring moisture-laden clouds from the Atlantic, resulting in frequent showers and overcast conditions.

The table below shows the average monthly rainfall in Ballycastle:

Sunshine

Due to its location in the northern part of the country, Ballycastle receives fewer hours of sunshine compared to other areas in Ireland. The average annual sunshine duration is approximately 1,400 hours. The sunniest months are May and June, with an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. Conversely, December is the darkest month, with only around 1-2 hours of sunshine per day.

Wind

The coastal location of Ballycastle means that it is often exposed to strong westerly winds coming in from the Atlantic. The prevailing winds in Ballycastle have an average speed of 20-30 kilometers per hour (12-19 miles per hour). However, during stormy weather systems, wind speeds can reach much higher levels.

Climate Highlights

• Ballycastle has a mild maritime climate with relatively mild temperatures throughout the year.
• The town experiences frequent rainfall, particularly during the autumn and winter months.
• Snowfall is rare in Ballycastle, but it can occur during the colder winter months.
• Ballycastle receives fewer hours of sunshine compared to other parts of Ireland.
• The town is often exposed to strong westerly winds, especially during stormy weather.

Overall, Ballycastle's climate offers a mix of mild temperatures, ample rainfall, and occasional windy conditions. Visitors to the area should come prepared for changeable weather and be ready to enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery regardless of the conditions.