What's the Weather like out there?
When planning any activities in the Irish countryside it is important to be aware of the daily weather forecast and plan accordingly. Sunny mornings can turn to wet and windy afternoons and visibility can deteriorate quickly if walking in the Irish uplands. While out walking always watch for changes in the weather, if it deteriorates be prepared to alter the route or turn back!
Most importantly - Always be prepared for a change in the weather and have suitable waterprroof clothing!
Useful Contacts
Listed below are some useful contact details where up-to-date weather information can be viewed: -
- Met Eireann Weather Dial Service - You can get an up-to-date regional weather forecast by calling Weather dial on:
Munster 1550 123 850
Ulster 1550 123 853
Leinster 1550 123 851
Connacht 1550 123 852
Dublin 1550 123 854
Sea Area 1550 123 855
Calls costs apply - see www.meteireann.ie for details.
- TV Teletext Weather Information - Can be viewed on RTE Aertel page 160 & 161
- RTE SMS Weather Service - Get the weather forecast sent to your mobile by text message each morning.
Text SUB WEATHERTODAY to 53554. See www.rte.ie/weather for details of SMS charges.
- Leave No Trace in Bad Weather - When walking we need to be aware of our impact on tracks and trails.The Leave No Trace principles can help us to minimise our impact. Realising our own impact is half the battle! Take the weather conditions into consideration when planning a trip. Once on the journey, the following recommendations will help to reduce impact:
On existing Trails:
* Wear appropriate footwear
* Wear gaiters
* Walk in the centre of tracks - even if muddy
* Avoid widening tracks
* When on an eroded section of track - walk in single file
* Protect the vegetation at the side of tracks
* Avoid secondary tracks (bootleg tracks or braids)
* Use the most durable surface available.
On pristine terrain
* Spread out so as not to form new tracks
* Be aware of fragile surfaces
* Limit the group size
* Be aware of damage to vegetation
* Avoid places where impact may be just beginning.
- By following these simple suggestions we can take the pressure off damaged tracks and avoid creating new ones. Currently, our boggy upland areas are in a fragile state. By recreational users checking their own behaviour and changing their habits, unnecessary damage can be reduced.
