Dublin: Hopes for a White Christmas have been dashed once again, with Met Éireann confirming that Ireland will not see widespread snowfall this festive season. Instead, meteorologists predict a mixed pattern of rain, wind and occasional sunshine, along with the possibility of further storms approaching the country.
White Christmases remain a rarity in Ireland. The last time the entire island was blanketed in snow was in 2010—15 years ago. Despite growing anticipation each year, forecasters say conditions once again will not be cold enough for snow, although betting continues on the chance of flurries at Dublin Airport on Christmas Day.
Unsettled Christmas Weather Forecast
Forecasters expect an unsettled weather pattern throughout the Christmas period, with above-average rainfall in many areas. Temperatures are also expected to remain above seasonal norms, further reducing the likelihood of snowfall.
From December 15–21, low pressure will dominate, bringing frequent rain and windy spells. Rainfall totals will be well above normal and temperatures slightly higher than average.
Between December 22–28, Ireland will experience more mixed conditions, with rainfall and temperatures closer to typical seasonal levels.
In the period December 29–January 4, higher pressure will bring a reduction in rainfall—below seasonal averages—and temperatures again trending above normal. Meteorologists say the outlook for January 5–11 remains uncertain.
No Bus Services on Christmas Day; Dublin Airport to Close as Usual
Dublin: Public transport services across Ireland will operate on revised schedules over the festive period, with no bus services running on Christmas Day. Dublin Airport will also close to passenger flights as per long-standing practice, with only cargo operations continuing. The airport chaplain will be present to greet arriving aircraft.
Transport for Ireland has published its Christmas and New Year timetables for bus, train and Luas services. Additional Dublin Bus Nightlink services will run throughout December to accommodate festive travel demand.
Key Festive Service Arrangements
Bus Éireann
- Christmas Eve: Normal service; last departures at 9pm
- Christmas Day: No service
- St. Stephen’s Day: Sunday timetable; most services begin at 9am
- Dec 27–31: Normal operations
- New Year’s Day: Sunday timetable
Dublin Bus
- Christmas Eve: Saturday timetable; last service at 9pm
- Christmas Day: No service
- St. Stephen’s Day: Sunday timetable; no Nightlink
- Dec 27–30: Saturday timetable with added morning services; full Nightlink on Dec 27–28
- New Year’s Eve: Saturday timetable with full Nightlink and 24-hour services
Nightlink services will also operate late every Friday and Saturday in December, with additional departures on December 11, 13, 18 and 21 from midnight until 4am.
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