Wind forecast Greenisland today

Wind in Greenisland right now

Meteogram and wind rose for Greenisland

Next 48 hours, hour by hour

Mean wind through the next 48 hours runs between 5 and 23 km/h (3 to 14 mph), mostly from the SW. The strongest gust is 46 km/h (29 mph) at Mon 12:00. Speeds are in km/h with miles per hour underneath. Direction is where the wind comes from.

Seven-day gust outlook

The windiest day of the week is Sat 10/10 with gusts to 50 km/h (31 mph). The calmest is Tue 6/10, gusts to 22 km/h (14 mph). Later days are less certain than the first two: the further out, the more the models can disagree.

What the wind does in Greenisland

Greenisland, or Inis Glas, is situated in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. As a coastal location, it experiences wind patterns influenced by its proximity to the sea. The prevailing winds across Ireland are from the west and southwest, and these often bring stronger conditions. Gusts, which are short, sudden increases in wind speed, will typically exceed the mean wind speed. In County Antrim, coastal areas generally experience mean 10 m wind speeds of approximately 5.5-7.5 m/s, while inland areas are somewhat less windy. Winter southwesterlies and north-westerlies are noted for bringing the strongest winds to the county. Coastal stations, such as those at George Best Belfast City Airport, can provide an early indication of approaching weather fronts.

Seasonal pattern

The seasonal wind pattern in Greenisland follows the general trend for Ireland, with stronger and more frequent winds typically occurring during the autumn and winter months. This is due to the increased frequency and intensity of Atlantic depressions tracking across or near the island. Spring and summer generally bring lighter winds, though strong winds can occur at any time of year. During summer afternoons, a sea breeze effect can develop along the coast, resulting in a localised increase in wind speed and a shift in direction, often from the sea towards the land. This is a common phenomenon in coastal areas when inland temperatures are significantly higher than sea temperatures.

Exposure and shelter

Greenisland's coastal position means it is generally more exposed to wind than many inland locations. However, the specific exposure depends on the local topography and the direction of the wind. While the north coast of County Antrim is particularly exposed, Belfast Lough, where Greenisland is located, offers some degree of shelter from certain directions. Wind speeds can be higher over open water and along the immediate coastline. Buildings and other structures can provide localised shelter, reducing wind speeds directly downwind, but can also cause funnelling effects in narrow passages, leading to increased wind speeds. Wind chill can be a significant factor, especially in stronger winds and cooler temperatures.

Local uses of the wind forecast

Accurate wind information is valuable for several activities in and around Greenisland. For the aerospace and engineering sector, particularly concerning George Best Belfast City Airport, wind data is critical for flight planning and operations. The ports and shipping industry, including Carrickfergus Marina and Belfast Harbour, relies on wind forecasts for navigation, berthing, and cargo handling. Farmers in the agri-food sector use wind data for planning activities such as spraying and silage timing. The wind energy sector in the county considers wind patterns for turbine efficiency. For general outdoor activities like walking or use of GAA pitches, understanding wind speed and direction helps in planning and comfort.

Near Greenisland

Greenisland is in Co. Antrim, one of 26 towns we publish for the county. The nearest observing stations are George Best Belfast City Airport EGAC (METAR) (9 km), Belfast International Airport EGAA (METAR) (22 km) and City of Derry Airport EGAE (METAR) (91 km). The closest wind farm in our guide is Altahullion Wind Farm, about 70 km away.

Nearest spots

Questions about wind in Greenisland

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Set your own limit and watch the odds at the live instrument for Greenisland, or read how the numbers above are made.