Met Éireann is forecasting a cold, clear night, with grass frost this Friday, followed by a dry start on Saturday. However, clouds and patchy rain will develop in the northwest during the day. Top temperatures will range between 12°C and 15°C.

The rain will spread into the country on Saturday night, but should break up. Temperatures will not drop as low, remaining between 6°C and 9°C.

Sunday will be a dull and cloudy day, with patchy light rain or drizzle. Some bright spells may develop in the afternoon or towards the evening. Top temperatures will reach 11°C to 13°C, before falling to frosty levels again in the southern half of the country on Sunday night.Winds will remain light to moderate, freshening only occasionally throughout the weekend.

Management notes

With weather and soil conditions holding up well, winter planting is in full swing on tillage farms. Some fine weather tuning is possible, depending on where you are in the country.

Dairy farmers are watching grass growth and Aidan Brennan has advice on adjusting demand to cover.

On beef farms, now is a good time to examine shed ventilation to avoid pneumonia issues at housing.

Meanwhile, Darren Carty advises sheep farmers on how to deal with poor lamb performance after this year's bad weather, and preparing for breeding.