Weather Almanac
Weather Almanac Key
Sunny
Windy
Foggy
Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
Mostly Cloudy
Few Scattered Showers
Scattered Showers
Light Rain
Rain
Heavy Rain
Snow and Rain Mix
Light Snow
Snow
Heavy Snow
Snow Showers
Thunderstorms
Information collected from Met Office Summaries,Weather Underground:London, Weather Underground:Dufftown, and Met Éireann Summaries
July 2010
UK overview
July saw the largely settled, static weather patterns of spring and early summer replaced by a more changeable Atlantic type. This airstream was relatively warm but often cloudy. Whilst the north-western half of the UK saw more rainfall than in recent months, the south-eastern half remained drier than average with many warm days. There was a west-east gradient in mean temperature, ranging from close to average in much of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and western England to over 2.0 °C above average in East Anglia. July saw over twice the normal rainfall in a broad swathe from west Wales through north-west England, southern and eastern Scotland to Shetland. It was also wetter than normal across most of the rest of Scotland and Wales, and in Northern Ireland. In sharp contrast, much of south-east England was very dry with less than half the normal amount in Sussex and the Home Counties. Overall, it was duller than average, especially in many western areas. The only places with more sunshine than normal were Kent and in the Northern Isles.
A maximum temperature of 31.7 °C was recorded at Gravesend (Kent) on 9th - the highest UK temperature of 2010. A minimum temperature of 0.1 °C was recorded at Kinbrace (Highland) early on 23rd. In the 24 hours ending at 0900 on 19th, 101.0 mm of rainfall was recorded at Seathwaite (Cumbria). A wind gust of 84 mph was recorded at Aberdaron (Gwynedd) on 16th.
London
Hogwarts
England diary of highlights
1st to 8th:
The month began with an unseasonably deep area of low pressure in the Atlantic and weather fronts bringing occasional rain to western areas. Much drier conditions were experienced further south-east. This pattern continued through the rest of this period, with low pressure bringing some spells of rain to the north and west and mostly drier and warmer weather towards the south-east.
9th to 11th:
The highest UK temperature of the year was measured at Gravesend (Kent) on 9th (31.7 °C), influenced by warm air from the continent. Meanwhile it was cooler and breezier across the west and north with some cloud and rain for a time. Mainly dry and very warm in the south-east and the Midlands again on 10th, with the temperature reaching 30.9 °C at Gravesend. Meanwhile, further cloud and outbreaks of rain affected northern and western parts.
12th to 16th:
Some welcome rain managed to reach the south-east, with Manston (Kent) recording 28.0 mm on 12th. This also marked the end of the high temperatures experienced here over the previous days. Further spells of rain continued for much of the country, with some thunderstorms in the Midlands on 14th. An unusually active low pressure system developed on the evening of 15th and ran through the Irish Sea during the early hours of 16th. This brought some strong winds and heavy rain to western areas, with 21.4 mm of rainfall recorded at Cardinham (Cornwall) in 24 hours to 0900 on 16th. The system tracked quickly north-eastwards, leaving drier and brighter conditions but with some heavy showers in the west; 22.4 mm fell at Filton (Bristol) in 24 hours to 0900 on 17th.
17th to 22nd:
Higher pressure re-established itself in the south-east, keeping the weather dry and relatively warm here and preventing the eastward progress of weather fronts. As a result, much of the west and north-west continued to see persistent cloud and occasional rain, often heavy, with 101.0 mm of rainfall recorded at Seathwaite (Cumbria) in 24 hours to 0900 on 19th. There were reports of flooding in Merseyside on 20th where hourly rainfall rates were often in excess of 20 mm, and then again on 21st and 22nd with some torrential downpours and thunderstorms associated with a weather front. Examples of 24-hour rainfall totals, from 0900 20th to 0900 21st, were 47.2 mm at Ness Gardens (Cheshire) and 45.4 mm at Preston (Lancashire).
23rd to 31st:
Eastward-moving weather fronts brought cloud and some showers at times, but it was still largely dry in the south and east. Overall, temperatures were just above normal, especially in the south-east where it was also relatively warm overnight 30th / 31st, the temperature falling no lower than 17 °C at several places.
Wales diary of highlights
July was a mainly unsettled month, as a westerly flow brought cloud and some wet spells especially to the west and north. Temperatures were generally close to normal. Rainfall totals were above normal in all areas and it was particularly wet in west and north Wales, where over twice the normal amount fell. Over Anglesey and Carnarvonshire it was the second wettest July in 100 years of records. It was a relatively dull month, with around 60% of the normal July sunshine and the third dullest July in a series from 1929.
1st to 4th:
An unsettled start to the month. A cold front moving in from the west brought some heavy rain across the south-west on the evening of 1st, with 15 to 25 mm in six hours in places. Another set of fronts spread some rain across most parts later on 4th.
5th to 6th:
A brief dry spell as a ridge of high pressure moved across from the west, with minimum overnight temperatures as low as 7 °C in places; 6.7 °C was recorded at Sennybridge (Powys) early on 6th.
7th to 12th:
A return to rather changeable weather as a succession of weather fronts moved north-eastwards through this period bringing some bands of mostly light rain, although some heavy and persistent rain occurred on the evening of 10th. Some brief drier spells also occurred, mainly on 8th and 11th.
13th to 16th:
An unsettled, windy spell as low pressure became established over the UK. Some rain or showers, heavy at times, moved northwards on 13th and 14th. There was a brief, drier interlude on 15th before a deepening area of low pressure moved north through the St George's Channel and Irish Sea through the evening of 15th and overnight into 16th. This brought some very strong winds, particularly to the north-west, where gusts of 84 mph were recorded at Aberdaron (Gwynedd) and 71 mph at Valley (Anglesey).
17th to 22nd:
After another brief dry spell on 17th, the unsettled weather returned with outbreaks of rain at times during 18th and 19th, with the rain heavy at times across north-western areas later on 19th. A slow-moving cold front brought some very heavy and at times thundery rain over most parts on 20th and early on 21st. Totals in the 24 hours to 0900 on 21st included 68.2 mm at Hawarden Airport (Flintshire), 53 mm at Swyddffynnon (Ceredigion), 43.8 mm at Lake Vyrnwy (Powys) and 38.6 mm at Trawsgoed (Ceredigion). Further heavy and thundery showers occurred across most parts during 22nd.
23rd to 31st:
Generally more settled and drier, but some generally weak weather fronts still moved in from the Atlantic at times. These brought mostly only light rain or drizzle, but there were some heavier bursts of rain over the north-west later on 30th. It was also quite humid and warm at times overnight through this period.
Scotland diary of highlights
A generally unsettled month, with frequent showers or longer spells of rain. Mean temperatures were close to, or slightly above, the 1971-2000 normal. It was a very wet month, with rainfall totals widely over 150% of normal and over twice the normal amount recorded in much of the Borders, eastern Scotland and in Shetland. It was the fourth-wettest July over Scotland in 100 years of record. Overall, it was duller than average, especially in south-western areas. The main exceptions were the Northern Isles which were sunnier than normal.
1st to 10th:
Rain on 1st, most persistent and locally heavy in west, cleared away to leave some warm sunshine and a few showers. Early heavy rain in eastern areas on 2nd, then bright with showers developing in west. Bright on 3rd with some sunshine in the east but scattered showers in the north-west. A wet and windy day on 4th with thunderstorms; 52.2 mm was recorded at Tyndrum (Stirling) and 40.4 mm at Bishopton (Glasgow). A mixture of sunny intervals and scattered showers on 5th, the showers most frequent over the north-west. A few showers in the north-west at first on 6th then rain swept north-eastwards across all parts by evening. On 7th, rain cleared by morning then windy, with severe gales in the north-west. A few showers in the north and west on 8th, otherwise dry and bright before rain in the south-west later. Mainly cloudy on 9th with a band of rain sinking south, this heaviest in the north-west. Mostly cloudy on 10th with rain, heavy at times.
11th to 20th:
Rain at first on 11th, heavy over Shetland with almost 24.8 mm recorded at Baltasound in two hours, before becoming brighter with showers. Rain affected the north-west during morning of 12th, otherwise bright with scattered showers. Mostly dry on 13th with sunny spells, but heavy showers with thunder affected the north-west and around Inverness. Persistent rain reached the south during the evening. Rain moved northwards during 14th with some heavier outbreaks especially in the south and east during the evening. Cool east winds, with temperatures reaching only 13.6 °C at Leuchars (Fife) and 13.3 °C at Lossiemouth (Moray). Heavy thundery rain move north early on 15th with Auchincruive (Ayrshire) recording 74.0 mm up to 0900, much of which fell in about 4 hours. Rain and scattered showers again on 16th. Overnight rain in west cleared early on 17th to leave showers. Bright on 18th, again with scattered showers and more persistent rain in the south during evening. Further rain spread eastwards on 19th, turning thundery in north with 21.0 mm falling at Lossiemouth. The 20th was warm with sunshine and scattered showers, though Shetland stayed dull and misty.
21st to 31st:
Mostly cloudy on 21st with persistent, heavy rain in places, especially from Perthshire to the Central Lowlands and in the north-east; 57.8 mm was recorded at Rosehearty (Aberdeenshire) in the 48 hours ending at 0900 on 22nd. The rain finally cleared southwards on morning of 22nd, with sunny spells developing. The 23rd was dry with plenty of sunshine and a top temperature of 20.5 °C at Gogarbank (Edinburgh). Rather cloudy on 24th with patchy light rain but brighter in east. Mostly cloudy on 25th, with showers across the north. Rain on 26th, mainly across the north and west, and brighter in the south and east, with 21.5 °C at Leuchars. Cloudy with rain in north-west on 27th. Drier, brighter in south and east although a few showers developed. The 28th was bright with sunshine and scattered showers, these heavy in the north-east. Showers became isolated on 29th, with 11 hours of sunshine recorded in the Glasgow area. The 30th was cloudy with rain moving eastwards, heavier outbreaks in the west but mainly dry along the east coast. Rather cloudy with showers on 31st, heaviest in the north-east.
Northern Ireland diary of highlights
A generally unsettled month, with showers or longer spells of rain. Mean temperatures were slightly above the 1971-2000 normal. It was a wet month, with rainfall totals generally more than 175% of normal and over 200% in much of County Down. It was the fifth-wettest July over Northern Ireland in a 100-year series, slightly wetter than July 2009 and 2007. It was also a relatively dull month, with around 70% of the average sunshine.
1st to 10th:
On 1st locally heavy overnight rain, with over 20 mm in County Down, cleared to leave sunny spells and a few showers. Bright on 2nd and 3rd with a few showers. On 4th a band of rain moved eastwards during the morning accompanied by gale-force winds, to leave a drier, brighter afternoon. The 5th was bright with scattered showers. A dry start to 6th but rain developed during the morning. On 7th rain soon cleared with scattered showers following. Bright and dry on 8th with rain later. Cloudy on 9th and 10th with outbreaks of rain, heavy at times.
11th to 20th:
Rain at first on 11th, becoming brighter with showers later. Mainly dry on 12th with some sunshine, but showers in the west. Dry for much of 13th with some sunshine, then rain during evening. Heavy rain crossed most areas in the early hours of 14th, becoming lighter during morning and followed by a drier, brighter afternoon. Rather showery on 15th with some locally torrential downpours, and 53.4 mm was recorded at St Angelo (County Fermanagh). Heavy rain cleared on morning of 16th, then bright with scattered showers. Overnight rain soon cleared on 17th to leave sunny spells and occasional showers. Bright on 18th but cloudy with rain during evening. Rain cleared early on 19th then bright and warm, with the temperature reaching 22 °C widely. The 20th had a mixture of sunny intervals and scattered heavy showers.
21st to 31st:
Rain on 21st, most persistent and heavy in the north and west; 36.6 mm was recorded at Castlederg (County Tyrone). Thundery showers affected mainly Counties Down and Armagh during the afternoon and evening, resulting in flooding in Armagh city centre. The rain finally cleared south-eastwards on morning of 22nd, followed by sunny spells, continuing on 23rd. Mainly dry on 24th with bright spells. Cloudy on 25th with patchy light rain, mainly in the north and west. Brighter and warm on 26th with temperatures up to 22 °C, then rain later. The 27th and 28th were bright with scattered showers. The 29th was mainly dry and rather cloudy. Rain on morning of 30th then drier and brighter in the afternoon. The month ended with sunshine and scattered showers.
Ireland diary of highlights
July was the first month of 2010 which was dominated by weather patterns associated with Atlantic depressions. Slow-moving frontal systems brought significant falls of rain at times, while most days were cloudy but mild, with south to southwesterly winds. Rainfall totals for July were above normal everywhere and were more than twice the average at some stations; it was the fourth successive July with rainfall totals much in excess of normal over most of the country. Unlike previous years, however, the relatively dry weather of the preceding months of 2010 and consequent high soil moisture deficits helped to prevent significant flooding during this month. Claremorris had its wettest July since records began there in 1950, while its daily fall of 56mm on the 10th was also a record for the month at the station. Belmullet’s total of 134mm also set a new record for July at the station. Heavy falls in the period around the middle of the month were often associated with thunderstorms. Most stations recorded between 13 and 19 wetdays during the month (days with 1mm or more rainfall), compared with the normal range for July of between nine and 15.
Mean monthly air temperatures were near normal in the south, but were around half a degree higher than normal at most stations. As shown by the accompanying temperature charts, there was little variation in either daily maximum or minimum values during the month, with few very warm days. Mean maximum temperatures were close to normal, but the generally cloudy conditions kept mean minimum values over a degree higher than normal generally. July sunshine totals were below normal everywhere, the first relatively dull month of 2010. Valentia Observatory’s sunshine total of only 85 hours was among the five lowest for July in over a century of records at the station and was also its lowest of any month so far in 2010. The sunniest days of the month were during the first week and on the 22nd.
1st to 21st:
Rain was recorded during each day of this period and was very heavy at times. This rain was associated with frontal systems moving eastwards over Ireland, as unusually deep depressions for July tracked close to the west coast. The heaviest falls were on the 1st and in the periods 8th to 10th and 13th to 21st, with thunderstorms on several days; funnel clouds (tornadoes not reaching ground level) were observed at Adare, Co. Limerick, on the 12th and at Bettystown, Co. Meath, on the 21st. Gale gusts were recorded on several days, particularly on the 1st and 4th. Temperatures were close to normal throughout, with little diurnal variation. After relatively sunny weather during the first five days, the remainder of the period was dull.
22nd to 29th:
A weak ridge of high pressure over Ireland during most of this period brought drier conditions, but the weather remained mostly cloudy and humid with light rain at times. Temperatures remained near normal, rising above normal in eastern areas on the 25th and 26th. Winds were generally light, southwest to westerly. 30th to 31st: Active fronts associated with a depression to the northwest brought a spell of rain in all areas, heaviest in western areas, clearing to showers. Warm and humid with little sunshine.
August 2010
UK overview
With areas of low pressure over or near to the UK for most of the month, August was characterised by cloudy and rather cool weather with showers or longer spells of rain at times. As a consequence, it was the coolest August since 1993 even though mean temperatures were only somewhat below the 1971-2000 average. There were very few warm days, and over England and Wales the mean daytime maxima were about 1 °C below normal. Rainfall was well above normal over much of the south and east of England and south-east Wales. Over twice the normal amount fell over East Anglia and parts of the east Midlands and Sussex. In East Anglia it was the second-wettest August on record. In contrast, the month was drier than average over Northern Ireland, parts of northern England and the west of Scotland and Wales. Most areas were duller than normal, particularly south-east and central southern England where it was the fourth-dullest August on record. The sunnier exceptions were in Northern Ireland and south-west Scotland.
A maximum temperature of 26.7 °C was recorded at Lowestoft (Suffolk) on 20th and at Weybourne (Norfolk) on 21st. A minimum temperature of -1.3 °C was recorded at Altnaharra (Highland) early on 26th. In the twenty-four hours ending at 0900 on 20th, 75.4 mm of rainfall was recorded at Maerdy (mid-Glamorgan). A wind gust of 70 mph was recorded at South Uist (Western Isles) on 20th.
London
Hogwarts
England diary of highlights
Changeable with plenty of cloud and days with showers or longer periods of rain. The generally westerly airstreams meant that temperatures were somewhat below the 1971-2000 average and it was the coolest August since 1993. There were very few warm days and mean daytime maxima were typically about 1 °C below normal. Over twice the normal amount of rain fell over East Anglia and parts of the east Midlands and Sussex. Rainfall was also well above normal over other parts of the south and east. Over East Anglia, it was the second wettest August in the last 100 years (although the Augusts of 2004 and 2006 were also very wet). In contrast, rainfall was somewhat below average over parts of northern England. Sunshine totals were generally below normal, particularly over south-east and central southern England. Here it was the fourth-dullest August in a series from 1929, although August 2008 was even duller.
1st to 4th:
Generally settled at first, with just a few showers and temperatures close to or above normal. Rain moved in from the west later on 3rd. On 4th heavy rain spread south-eastwards, with some thunderstorms in the south-east during the afternoon causing localised flooding in Sussex.
5th to 11th:
A mainly changeable period with showers or bands of rain moving eastwards, but some drier brighter interludes. Temperatures were close to or just above normal in the south and east, reaching around 24 °C in the London area on 8th and in many eastern areas on 9th.
12th to 14th:
An area of low pressure became slow-moving in the North Sea during 12th. This led to some heavy thunderstorms over the north-west and the Pennines, with 46.0 mm recorded at Woodford (Greater Manchester) in twenty-four hours. The thundery activity then transferred to eastern England on 13th and 14th with 34.6 mm recorded at Marham (Norfolk) in twenty-four hours to 0900 on 14th.
15th to 19th:
A rather changeable period with spells of rain or heavy showers, and some thunderstorms, but sunnier periods as well.
20th to 22nd:
An area of low pressure moved north-eastwards on 20th, causing some significant rainfall in the west; 51.6 mm of rain was recorded at Shap (Cumbria). It was also windy in the west. Meanwhile, temperatures reached around 24 °C in the more settled eastern areas with 26.7 °C at Lowestoft (Suffolk) on 20th and at Weybourne (Norfolk) on 21st. On 21st, there were very mild but cloudy and drizzly conditions in the south-west, clearing on 22nd to give fine weather with a few showers.
23rd to 27th:
A large area of heavy rain moved through southern and central areas during the early hours of 23rd, with around 25 mm widely and 42.0 mm at Thorney Island (Hampshire). The 24th was a showery and windy day. On 25th, whilst the north saw settled conditions, a further area of persistent rain moved across the south giving over 20 mm widely and more than 40 mm in places; 45.8 mm was recorded at Wattisham (Suffolk). More heavy rain arrived in the far south by the end of 25th. The 26th was an unusually cool August day across parts of the Midlands, with maximum temperatures around 14 °C widely and only 12.8 °C at Leek (Staffordshire). Persistent rain eventually cleared the south-east later on 27th, with more settled conditions spreading in from the north-west.
28th to 31st:
An area of high pressure started to build in from the south-west, creating largely settled conditions here. Some strong northerly winds brought heavy showers on 29th particularly over northern England, but by Bank Holiday Monday most areas were dry, warm and sunny. High pressure became well established by 31st.
Wales diary of highlights
Changeable with plenty of cloud and days with showers or longer periods of rain. The predominant westerly airstreams resulted in mean temperatures somewhat below the 1971-2000 average, with mean daytime maxima typically about 1 °C below normal. It was the coolest August since 1993. Rainfall ranged from about 50% above normal over south-east Wales to some 25% below normal along the west coast. Sunshine totals were somewhat below average.
1st to 7th:
A mostly dry start to the month, but rather cloudy. The 3rd was also mostly cloudy and light rain affected western coasts and hills. On 4th cloud and some rain affected the east, but the west was drier with sunshine. Scattered showers continued into 5th, heavy in places. Outbreaks of rain and drizzle spread to western areas on 6th. A north-westerly flow on 7th brought a few showers, dying out later.
8th to 14th:
The 8th was rather chilly at first, but otherwise dry with some warm sunny spells. Temperatures rose widely above 20 °C. On 9th outbreaks of rain spread to all areas during the day, turning heavy at times. On 10th, this rain cleared to leave a day of sunny intervals and a few showers. There were further light showers early on 11th, then it was dry and bright. A few showers affected northern and eastern parts on 12th, with sunshine in the south and west. On 13th it was again the north-east that had some rain at times and the south-west stayed largely dry and fine. The 14th was another unsettled day with outbreaks of rain, clearing to sunshine and scattered showers.
15th to 16th:
Both dry and quite sunny days, and although chilly by night the temperatures rose to over 21 °C in most areas; 23.1 °C was recorded at Pembrey Sands (Carmarthenshire) on 15th. Cloud increased in the west later though.
17th to 26th:
On 17th, overnight rain cleared to leave a mostly fine day with sunny intervals. After a dry and sunny start to 18th, scattered showers developed, some heavy. On 19th, it was dry and bright at first, but soon clouded over from the west with outbreaks of rain later. Outbreaks of rain continued on 20th, with 42.4 mm recorded at Capel Curig (Conwy) and 29.6 mm at St Athan (Glamorgan) in twenty-four hours to 0900. The cloudy weather with rain at times continued on 21st, some heavy across central and southern areas. On 22nd, there was some sunshine but also a few showers in the west. The 23rd was rather cloudy with rain spreading from the west, some of this heavy. The 24th saw further showers but with some sunshine. On 25th cloud and outbreaks of rain spread from the south-west to affect most areas during the day. Some of this rain turned heavy and in the twenty-four hours ending at 0900 on 26th, 64.0 mm of rainfall was recorded at Mumbles Head (Swansea). The 26th remained quite cloudy, with rain throughout the day.
27th to 29th:
The 27th was a dry day with plenty of sunshine, after a cold start. Both 28th and 29th were unsettled for central and northern areas with some showers, whereas the south stayed largely dry.
30th to 31st:
On Bank Holiday Monday, as pressure rose, it became much more settled with sunny spells. Temperatures reached 20 °C locally on 31st.
Scotland diary of highlights
Changeable weather predominated, with plenty of cloud and showers and more widespread rain at times. The mean temperature was somewhat below the 1971-2000 average and it was the coolest August since 1998, although similar to August 2007. Rainfalls ranged from more than 30% above average in Shetland and parts of the north-east to about 25% below normal in parts of the south and west. Overall, it was much drier than the last three Augusts. It was sunnier than normal over the south-west, but duller over the Northern Isles and parts of the north-east.
1st to 9th:
The 1st was rather cloudy with showers, some heavy. Mainly dry but rather cloudy on 2nd, with patchy rain and showers. Bright with sunny spells and showers on 3rd, the showers heavy across Aberdeenshire. The 4th and 5th were bright with some sunny spells and a few showers, locally heavy. Cloud and occasional rain edged north on 6th. Although showers affected the south-east on 7th, many places were dry and bright and 23.0 °C was recorded at Bishopton (Glasgow). Mainly dry with some sunshine on 8th, the temperature at Charterhall (Borders) reaching 21.7 °C. Rain on 9th was followed by scattered showers, with isolated thunderstorms.
10th to 20th:
Showers for most parts on 10th, some heavy and thundery, with 18.8 mm recorded at Carterhouse (Borders). The 11th was similar with 21.2 mm at Loch Glascarnoch (Highland). The 12th saw a mixture of sunshine and showers, these heaviest in the south-east, while the north-west was cool and cloudy. The 13th was mostly cloudy in the north, while the south had sunny spells, the temperature at Millport on Great Cumbrae (Ayrshire) reaching 21.6 °C. The 14th and 15th were mainly dry with some sunshine, with 23.3 °C recorded at Bishopton and 24.5 °C at Strathallan (Perthshire) on 15th. The 16th was dry and bright in the east, but cloudy with rain in the west during the afternoon, edging eastwards later. On 17th, this rain became confined to the Northern Isles, with sunny spells and heavy showers developing elsewhere. A chilly start to 18th, with temperatures down to 3.5 °C at Braemar (Aberdeenshire) and 3.0 °C at Eskdalemuir (Dumfries and Galloway). Sunny spells and showers on 18th and 19th before rain edged northwards, turning heavy on 20th, followed by brighter showery weather. Eskdalemuir recorded 41.0 mm of rain in the twenty-four hours to 2200, while severe gales affected the north-west, with a gust of 70 mph on South Uist (Western Isles). Temperatures over 22 °C were recorded in sunshine in the east, with Fyvie Castle (Aberdeenshire) reaching 24.5 °C.
21st to 29th:
Gales became confined to Shetland on 21st, with sunshine and showers affecting most areas into 22nd. A dry, bright start to 23rd in the north but outbreaks of heavy rain spread from the south, with 14 mm in one hour at Bishopton in the afternoon. Mostly cloudy start to 24th with showers, some heavy in the north, then drier and brighter in the afternoon. Scattered showers on 25th, but most areas were dry with sunny spells. Cold start to 26th, with the temperature at Altnaharra (Highland) falling to -1.3 °C, then sunny intervals and scattered showers with thunderstorms in Moray. Sunny intervals and scattered showers, some heavy and thundery, on 27th. Sunny intervals and some heavy showers again on 28th. Strong to gale force north-westerly winds on 29th brought a day of showers, wintry on the highest summits, the showers dying out from the west as winds eased later.
30th to 31st:
Most places were dry and sunny, with the temperature reaching 21.3 °C at Eskdalemuir on 30th. The nights were rather cold, with pockets of ground frost across the Highlands.
Northern Ireland diary of highlights
Changeable weather predominated, with plenty of cloud and showers or more widespread rain at times. The generally westerly airstreams meant that temperatures were somewhat below the 1971-2000 average and it was the coolest August since 1994. Rainfalls were typically 30% below normal. It was much drier than the last three Augusts, and the driest since 2003. Sunshine totals were about 20% above average, making it the sunniest August since 2003.
1st to 10th:
The 1st was rather cloudy with bright spells and a scattering of showers. Mostly dry on 2nd, but again rather cloudy. Mainly cloudy on 3rd with some outbreaks of rain. Sunny intervals and a few showers on 4th and 5th. The 6th was cloudy with outbreaks of rain. A few showers at first on 7th, especially in the east, but much of the day was dry and bright. The 8th was also dry for much of the day with sunshine, before rain edged eastwards during the evening. Rain at first on 9th then sunny spells and scattered showers, with 14.2 mm recorded at Ballypatrick Forest (County Antrim). Heavy showers cleared during the morning of 10th, to leave a mainly dry and bright day.
11th to 19th:
The 11th and 12th were rather cool and cloudy across the north with occasional showers, and some sunshine across the south. The 13th and 14th were mainly dry with the best of the sun in the east, the temperature at Murlough (County Down) reaching 20.1 °C on 14th. The 15th stayed dry with plenty of sunshine and temperatures in many inland areas reached 23 °C. The 16th started dry and bright but rain, heavy at times, affected the west during the morning and all parts in the afternoon. The 17th was bright with sunny spells and scattered light showers. Bright spells and heavy showers on 18th, some of the showers thundery. Sunshine and showers again on 19th, before rain moved northwards later.
20th to 29th:
Sunshine and showers from 20th to 22nd. Cloudier on 23rd with rain, then brighter in the afternoon. Scattered heavy showers died away during the afternoon of 24th leaving a few showers along the north coast. The 25th and 26th were mainly dry with sunny spells and only isolated showers. Sunny intervals and scattered showers on 27th and again on 28th when a few of the showers were sharp. Blustery showers died out through the morning of 29th, becoming dry with sunny spells as the strong north-westerly wind eased.
30th to 31st:
Fine and dry with plenty of sunshine and light winds. The temperature reached 20.7 °C at Castlederg (County Tyrone) and 20.8 °C at Ballykelly (County Londonderry) on 31st.
Ireland diary of Highlights
Although there were spells of wet weather at times during August, rainfall amounts were generally small, especially in southern areas, while many days were sunny. There was little variation in temperatures during much of August, but a cool northerly airstream over Ireland during the last week brought mean temperatures for the month below normal at most stations. Rainfall totals were below normal everywhere and it was a particularly dry month over Munster and south Leinster, where less than 50% of normal rainfall was recorded. Cork Airport’s total of 17mm was its lowest for August since 1995. This station had only three wetdays during the month (days with 1mm or more rainfall), but between eight and 14 wetdays were measured at most stations, close to normal for August.
Temperatures were near or a little above normal during much of August, but cool conditions during the final week brought mean air temperatures for the month a little below normal generally, and many stations had their coolest August for 16 or 17 years. There were very few days during the month when maximum temperatures rose above 20°C, while there were no such days in some western and southwestern areas. Slight ground frost developed in eastern and midland areas towards the end of the month, with many stations recording their lowest August temperatures for up to 46 years on either the 29th or 31st. Like every other month so far of 2010 apart from July, sunshine totals were above normal everywhere and it was the sunniest August for between seven and 15 years generally. Unusually for August, the second half of the month was sunnier than the first, with some stations recording their sunniest day of the month as late as the 30th.
====1st to 15th:==== The first half of August brought shallow depressions close to Ireland, with weak frontal systems giving mostly light rain; most rainfall was recorded in western and northern areas. There were also intervals of fair weather, especially later in the period. Temperatures varied very little during this spell and both maximum and minimum values were close to normal for August. Winds were generally light to moderate westerly, later veering northerly.
====16th to 24th:==== More active Atlantic fronts gave falls of heavy rain in places, thundery at times, while deep depressions close to Ireland between the 20th and 24th brought the strongest winds of the month. Much of the rainfall was in the form of showers, with sunny periods also. Strong southerly winds between the 19th and 22nd brought higher than normal temperatures.
====25th to 31st:==== Pressure rose slowly over Ireland as an anticyclone to the west of the country moved eastwards. This period was dry apart from some light coastal showers, while most days were very sunny. The period was also cool, however, and clear conditions allowed temperatures to fall sharply at night. Winds were light, variable or northerly in direction
September 2010
UK overview
A changeable month with plenty of rain, especially across the northern half, but also some more settled spells. Although temperatures overall were close to or above normal, there were significant variations with several warm days but also some cold nights and localised frost. Mean temperatures were about 1 °C above normal across Northern Ireland and much of northern England, southern and western Scotland and close to average elsewhere. Rainfall varied from over 150% of the normal amount in much of Northern Ireland, parts of eastern Scotland and northern England to less than 75% of normal in parts of south-east England and the south Midlands. Sunshine duration was generally close to, or somewhat above, average.
A maximum temperature of 24.6 °C was recorded at Gravesend (Kent) on 22nd. A minimum temperature of -4.4 °C was recorded at Tyndrum (Stirling) early on 26th and at Kinbrace (Highland) early on 27th. In the 24 hours ending at 0900 on 14th, 102.6 mm of rainfall was recorded at Seathwaite (Cumbria). A wind gust of 68 mph was recorded at Capel Curig (Conwy) on 15th.
London
Hogwarts
England diary of highlights
After a settled first few days, much of the rest of the month was changeable with showers or bands of rain particularly across northern areas. Generally warm, especially in the first half, but some colder interludes later. Mean temperatures ranged from close to the 1971-2000 normal across southern areas to about 1 °C above normal in northernmost counties. Rainfall varied from over 150% of average in Lancashire and parts of east Yorkshire and Lincolnshire to less than 75% of average in parts of the south-east and the south Midlands. Sunshine amounts were generally close to normal.
1st to 4th:
With an area of high pressure over or close to the UK, the first few days of the month were mainly dry and settled and temperatures widely reached 21 °C each day. Mist and fog developed in places overnight.
5th to 8th:
By the end of the first week, more unsettled weather had taken hold with bands of rain from the west. Outbreaks of heavy rain spread north-eastwards on 6th with over 20 mm in some northern and western areas. In the 24 hours to 0900 on 7th, 32.6 mm fell at Cardinham (Cornwall) and 30.8 mm at Walney Island (Cumbria). Showery conditions developed on 7th with a further 15.6 mm falling at Cardinham.
9th to 15th:
A dry day with some sunshine on 9th was followed by rain spreading to north-western parts on 10th. Rain spread south-eastwards on 11th, clearing the south-east in the evening. Scattered showers followed the rain and affected many areas on 12th, but more persistent rain reached the north-west in the evening. This continued on 13th, with rainfall totals over 20 mm in many north-western areas and 102.6 mm at at Seathwaite (Cumbria). South-eastern areas stayed largely dry. During 14th and 15th, rain spread slowly southwards.
16th to 19th:
After mid-month the weather remained unsettled, but became cooler with some frosty nights. During 16th to 19th there was a mixture of bright spells and scattered showers, although more persistent rain gradually reached the north-west on 19th.
20th to 22nd:
After cloud and rain cleared the north on 20th, these were mainly dry, fine days. The warmest day of the month was 22nd, when temperatures reached 22 °C across many eastern and southern areas and 24.6 °C at Gravesend (Kent). It was cooler overnight though, with mist and fog developing. By the evening of 22nd, rain had reached the far west.
23rd to 30th:
Rain affected most areas on 23rd, but cleared on 24th to leave a dry and bright day for many on 25th. The 24th and 25th were cold days, with temperatures no higher than 11 to 13 °C across much of England. The night of 25th/26th was the coldest of the month, with temperatures falling towards 0 °C and ground frost at places in the west and north. Western parts kept some drier weather on 26th and 27th, but outbreaks of rain affected eastern parts. On 28th, further rain spread into the west, moving eastwards overnight and on 29th when central and eastern areas were wettest with 17.0 mm at High Wycombe (Bucks). The 30th was largely dry with just a few showers in western parts.
Wales diary of highlights
After a fine start, it was a mostly changeable month, with plenty of showers or periods of rain. Some warm days in the first half, but some colder spells later. Mean temperatures were typically 0.5 °C above the 1971-2000 normal. Rainfall was about 25% above normal. Sunshine was some 5% above normal.
1st to 4th:
Fine and mostly sunny for the first few days, with temperatures widely peaking around 21 °C on 2nd and 3rd. Cloud arrived in the west during the evening of 4th heralding a change to more unsettled weather
5th to 16th:
A few showers during 5th. Soon turning cloudy on 6th, with outbreaks of rain into the west during the day. On 7th, sunny intervals and showers, many heavy with thunder and tending to merge into longer spells of rain in the north. Showers developed during 8th, some heavy and thundery. The 9th was a fine day with sunshine and light westerly winds. On 10th, cloud and rain spread in from the west, the rain becoming slow-moving then heavy towards evening; 61.8 mm of rainfall was recorded at Sennybridge (Powys) in the 24 hours to 0900 on 11th. Despite the wind and rain, the temperature at Hawarden (Flintshire) rose to 22.1 °C. During 11th, rain moved away eastwards, and the afternoon was brighter with sunshine and showers. Much of 12th was fine and sunny. Some rain arrived in the north early on 13th, spreading to all areas on 13th and 14th. This became heavy and persistent at times, giving 48.8 mm at Capel Curig (Conwy) in 24 hours to 0900 on 14th. There was a dry start to 15th, before some showers spread from the north. A windy day, gusting to 68 mph at Capel Curig. There were showers on 16th, developing quite widely during the morning.
17th to 19th:
After a cold start, 17th was mainly dry and sunny. The 18th again started cold with a ground frost before cloud spread in from the west. The 19th again dawned cold, but rain spread in during the day. This persisted in the north and west, with 37.4 mm recorded at Capel Curig in 24 hours to 0900 on 20th.
20th to 25th:
The 20th saw further occasional rain, mainly in the west during the morning. On 21st, a band of rain moved slowly south-eastwards to lie through mid-Wales by evening, some of the rain heavy. Further heavy rain at first on 23rd, replaced by sunshine and showers during the afternoon; 42.8 mm of rain was recorded at Rhyl (Denbighshire). The 24th was rather cloudy with further light showers and sunshine later and 25th was mainly fine. These were cold days, with temperatures typically no higher than 10 to 12 °C.
26th to 27th:
Cold again on 26th with local air frost early, the temperature falling to -1.7 °C at Sennybridge (Powys), then dry with bright spells. The 27th was bright and dry, and stayed dry throughout.
28th to 30th:
After a dry start on 28th, cloud and rain spread in from the west. More rain moved eastwards overnight into 29th, but it became brighter later with a few showers in the west. The 29th/30th was another cold night under clear skies. The 30th was mostly dry with sunshine but a few sharp showers. During the evening, cloud and rain spread from the west.
Scotland diary of highlights
A changeable month, with some warm days in the first half but localised frosts in the last week. Mean temperatures ranged from close to the 1971-2000 average over the Northern Isles to about 1 °C above average over the south and west. Some overnight temperatures in the last week were notably low for September, in places the lowest for 20 to 30 years. Rainfall was close to average in most areas, but over 150% of normal fell in north Moray, north Aberdeenshire and parts of Fife. Sunshine was generally close to normal, the main exception being the Northern Isles and south-west Scotland which were about 20 to 30% above normal.
1st to 5th:
The 1st was mostly cloudy with patchy light rain. Dry and mainly sunny from 2nd to 4th, and becoming warm in places with 24.5°C at Kinlochewe (Highland) on 3rd. Rain reached western areas late on 4th. The 5th was mostly dry with sunny spells, especially in the north, and the temperature reached 21.9 °C at Lusa (Skye).
6th to 13th:
On 6th rain spread from the south-west, giving 40.4 mm at Port Ellen (Islay) overnight by 0900 on 7th. The rain spread further north on 7th, producing 33.8 mm at Aboyne (Aberdeenshire) in 24 hours to 0900 on 8th. Sunshine and thundery showers followed to the south, with 31.6 mm at Carterhouse (Borders) in these 24 hours. Strong easterly winds and high tides caused some problems along the east coast. The 8th was mainly dry with some warm sunshine, the temperature at Lusa reaching 21.6 °C. Sunny spells and a few showers on 9th but some persistent rain over Shetland. Rain spread eastwards on 10th, then brighter with showers in the west. Warm in some eastern parts, with 22.2 °C recorded at Kinloss (Moray). A band of rain moved eastwards early on 11th followed by showers, these heavy at times. Sunny intervals and a few showers on 12th before rain spread from the west in the evening. A mainly cloudy day on 13th with rain heavy at times in the north-west, with 49.6 mm recorded in 24 hours at Tyndrum (Stirling).
14th to 23rd:
The 14th was bright with showers, frequent and heavy in the north and west. The 15th was cool with sunshine, showers and strong winds with a gust of 60 mph at Drumalbin (Lanarkshire). Frequent showers continued over the north on 16th, with north-westerly gales and a gust of 56 mph at Baltasound (Shetland), but mainly dry and sunny further south. Less windy in north on 17th with further blustery showers, but again drier and brighter further south. Bright in the north and south-east on 18th, cloudy with some rain elsewhere. Outbreaks of rain on 19th, with 24.6 mm in 24 hours at Aultbea (Highland), but drier and brighter in the south-east. On 20th a band of rain cleared northwards, followed by scattered showers. Clouding over from the west on 21st with outbreaks of rain, these heaviest and most persistent in the west. Rain or showers on 22nd, some thundery, with 59.6 mm recorded at Bishopton (Glasgow) and 67.0 mm at Hunterston (Ayrshire) in 24 hours to 0900 on 23rd. Persistent heavy rain over the north-east on 23rd, with 56.4 mm in 24 hours to 1900 at Rosehearty (Aberdeenshire). Scattered showers across the rest of the south and east, and drier in the west.
24th to 30th:
Mainly dry from 24th to 26th with sunny spells and a cold northerly wind. Scattered showers affected the north-east giving the Cairngorms a fresh covering of snow. Some overnight frosts developed, with temperatures of -4.2 °C at Tulloch Bridge (Highland) and -4.4 °C atTyndrum (Stirling) early on 26th and -4.4 °C at Kinbrace (Highland) early on 27th, the coldest September nights here for over 20 years. More cloud on 27th but mainly dry. Rather cloudy on 28th with outbreaks of rain, more especially during the afternoon. A band of rain, heavy at times, moved eastwards on 29th followed by drier, brighter conditions. The 30th was a mainly dry day with sunshine and isolated showers.
Northern Ireland diary of highlights
After a fine start, it was a mainly unsettled month with showers or longer spells of rain. There were some warm days in the first half, but cold nights in the last week with frost. Overall, mean temperatures were about 1 °C above the 1971-2000 average. Rainfall ranged from about twice the average in much of Fermanagh and Armagh to close to average near the coasts of Antrim and Down. It was the wettest September since 1999 over Northern Ireland generally. Sunshine duration was close to normal.
1st to 10th:
The 1st was mainly dry and rather cloudy with a top temperature of 21.3 °C at Castlederg (County Tyrone). Dry and sunny on 2nd and 3rd, with temperatures reaching 22.7 °C at Derrylin (County Fermanagh) on 2nd and 23.4 °C at Castlederg on 3rd. Rather cloudy on 4th with outbreaks of occasionally heavy rain spreading north-eastwards. Cloudy again on 5th with patchy rain, this becoming more persistent during the evening. Heavy rain continued throughout 6th and southern areas collected more than 50 mm, with 90.2 mm at Killowen (County Down) and 94.8 mm at Lough Fea (County Tyrone) in the 48 hours to 0900 on 7th. A brighter day on 7th but with some heavy showers. Sunshine on 8th with heavy showers in the west. Sunny spells and a few showers on 9th, with the temperature rising to 22.5 °C at Killowen, before rain arrived during the evening. Overnight rain then dry with some sunshine on 10th.
11th to 20th:
Sunny intervals and showers on 11th, some heavy with thunder. Sunny intervals and a few showers on 12th before rain spread from the west in the evening. A cloudy day on 13th with outbreaks of rain, these heavy at times before clearing in the evening. Sunshine and showers from 14th to 16th. There were still a few showers on 17th but otherwise it was dry with sunny spells. Cloudy with outbreaks of rain on 18th, giving 18.2 mm at Lough Fea. A bright start to 19th, before occasional rain later. Cloudy with some rain at first on 20th but then dry with sunny spells developing.
21st to 30th:
Generally cloudy with outbreaks of rain on 21st. Brightening up on 22nd, but the sunshine set off thundery showers. Rather cloudy on 23rd with scattered showers, heavy at times in the east. Much drier and brighter on 24th. A clear night led to the temperature at Katesbridge (County Down) falling to -1.4 °C. The 25th was dry but cloudy and cool. The cloud broke up on 26th and 27th allowing some sunny spells to develop, and the temperature at Katesbridge fell to -2.2 °C early on 27th. Rather cloudy on 28th with outbreaks of rain, more especially in the afternoon. The 29th and 30th were mainly dry and bright with just a few showers.
Ireland diary of highlights
September combined spells of relatively dry, settled conditions with periods of very wet weather, giving some record-breaking daily falls of rain at some stations. Temperatures were around two degrees higher than normal for most of the month, but cooler weather developed during the final week, bringing ground frost in some areas.
Monthly rainfall totals were above normal except in parts of Munster, with around twice the September average recorded in places; Mullingar had its wettest September since 1962. The number of wet days during the month (days with 1mm or more rainfall) was between 13 and 19 at the majority of stations, a little higher than the normal range for September. Heaviest falls were measured in the period 5th to 7th and on the 9th, 13th and 21st/22nd.
Widespread daily falls of between 20mm and 60mm on the 6th were the highest on record for September at some stations: Knock Airport’s fall of 86.5mm on this day was the highest daily fall at the station for any month since rainfall measurements began there in 1988. Mean monthly air temperatures were around one degree higher than normal and it was a particularly warm month in western and northwestern areas. The highest daily values were measured during the first four days of the month, when maxima of over 20°C were widely recorded. In contrast, temperatures fell well below normal at times during the final week, when some very low air and ground temperatures for September were measured in midland and eastern areas. Sunshine totals for the month were higher than normal almost everywhere, with most stations recording their sunniest days in the period 1st to 4th.
1st to 3rd:
A large area of high pressure over Ireland brought dry and mostly sunny conditions with light southeasterly winds.Daytime temperatures were well above normal, but nights were cool in eastern areas.
4th to 14th:
Slow-moving depressions over Ireland brought spells of rain or showers each day, some of which were very heavy and accompanied by thunder. The heaviest falls were recorded early in the period: fourday falls of between 60mm and 100mm were measured in many places between the 4th and 7th. Most thunder was observed in southern and eastern areas, while a tornado was reported from Allenwood, Co. Kildare, on the 10th. This period was generally mild and cloudy, with south to southwesterly winds. There were widespread gale gusts on the 13th and 14th, when a deep depression passed to the north of the country.
15th to 31st:
Falls of heavy rain were widespread on the 22nd and 28th, but rainfall amounts on most other days during this period were small, especially in eastern and southern areas. Little or no rain was recorded between the 24th and 27th. Temperatures were variable, with warm weather between the 19th and 22nd, before falling well below normal in a northerly airstream between the 23rd and 26th. Sunny spells were recorded each day, particularly in eastern areas.
