Current Weather in Cork

Cultural and meteorological awareness of the climate in Ireland is rooted in the affinity for changeable weather, a rich natural environment, and unique values cultivated through years of history and daily life.

Flexible Adaptation to Changeable Weather

Instability of Weather and Daily Life

• In Ireland, it is commonly said that "there are four seasons in a day," highlighting that the weather frequently changes.
• Even when it's sunny outdoors, an umbrella or raincoat is essential to prepare for sudden rain.

Weather as a Central Topic of Conversation

• Weather serves as a lubricant for communication among the Irish.
• It is natural to start a conversation with "How’s the weather?" upon meeting someone.

Life Culture Closely Connected to Nature

Lush Nature and Rainfall

• Known as the "Emerald Isle," Ireland has frequent rainfall throughout the year, creating a climate suitable for the growth of plants.
• This climate also influences gardening, hiking, and livestock farming in the cultural life.

Celtic Culture and Nature Worship

• In ancient Celtic traditions, seasonal changes and weather have been considered sacred.
• There are also connections between weather and religious rituals, such as the Brigid festival (celebrating the arrival of spring).

Meteorological Awareness Accompanied by Rain

Resilience and Positivity Toward Rain

• The Irish have a culture that accepts rain rather than lamenting it, often referring to it as a "Soft day."
• Rain is also associated with serenity and poetic sensibility, expressed in literature and music.

Discrepancy Between Weather Forecasts and Personal Experience

• Weather forecasts in Ireland are often received with an understanding of inherent uncertainty, leading people to judge weather based on their own experience.
• Although weather apps are used, many people still trust the local sky's conditions.

Relationship Between Seasonal Events and Climate

Alignment of Seasonal Events with Weather

• St. Patrick's Day (March) coincides with the arrival of spring, leading to increased activity among people as the weather improves.
• Events like the Summer Solstice and Halloween (of Celtic origin) are cultural events that emphasize the movement of the sun and natural cycles.

Weather and Festivals

• Festival culture is vibrant, with outdoor music events concentrated during sunny summer days.
• Conversely, "all-weather event design" has developed, taking weather changes into account.

Changes in Climate Awareness in Modern Times

Growing Concern for Climate Change and Environmental Protection

• In Ireland, the frequent occurrence of extreme weather and floods has led to increased awareness of climate change.
• Among the youth, there is a growing interest in renewable energy and transitioning to a decarbonized society.

Connection Between Weather and Economy/Agriculture

• As a pastoral and agricultural nation, Ireland finds that rainfall and temperature are directly linked to harvests and economic activities.
• With the improvement in the accuracy of weather forecasts, the utilization of agricultural IoT and weather data is also progressing.

Summary

Ireland's climate culture is supported by a lifestyle and values predicated on accepting unpredictable weather and living in harmony with nature. This attitude of living with the climate is rooted in daily life and continues to evolve and adapt.