Wind forecast Kilkeel today

Wind in Kilkeel right now

Meteogram and wind rose for Kilkeel

Next 48 hours, hour by hour

Mean wind through the next 48 hours runs between 3 and 23 km/h (2 to 14 mph), mostly from the WSW. The strongest gust is 43 km/h (27 mph) at Mon 13:00. 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 Fri 9/10 with gusts to 55 km/h (34 mph). The calmest is Tue 6/10, gusts to 23 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 Kilkeel

Kilkeel, or Cill Chaoil, is located in County Down, a coastal county in Ulster. Its proximity to the coast, approximately 1 km, means it experiences a maritime wind climate. The prevailing wind direction across County Down is generally south-westerly. Coastal areas in the county typically experience mean 10 m wind speeds ranging from 5.5 to 7.5 m/s, while inland areas see speeds around 4 to 5.5 m/s. Wind speeds are generally higher at sea and along the coast compared to inland locations. Gusts, which are short, sudden increases in wind speed, will always exceed the mean wind speed and can be significantly stronger, particularly during periods of strong winds. Strongest winds in the county are often associated with winter south-westerlies and north-westerlies.

Seasonal pattern

Ireland's wind patterns are largely influenced by Atlantic depressions, which are more frequent and intense during the autumn and winter months. Consequently, Kilkeel typically experiences its strongest and most consistent winds from autumn through to spring. During these seasons, south-westerly and north-westerly winds are common, bringing higher mean speeds and more frequent strong gusts. Summer months generally see lighter winds, though local effects such as sea breezes can develop on warm, sunny afternoons. These sea breezes typically blow from the sea towards the land, offering a localised increase in wind speed during otherwise calmer periods. Wind chill can be a factor in colder, windier conditions.

Exposure and shelter

As a coastal town, Kilkeel is exposed to winds directly from the Irish Sea. The degree of exposure will depend on the specific direction of the wind and the local topography. While coastal areas generally experience higher wind speeds, shelter can be found in the lee of hills, buildings, or other significant obstructions. Conversely, wind can be funnelled and intensified in gaps or valleys. County Down's coastline faces the Irish Sea and the North Channel. Elsewhere in the county, areas like the Mourne passes and the Ards peninsula can experience strong funnelled easterlies and westerly gusts. The Wind Agent provides detailed wind data at 10 m, 80 m, and 120 m heights, which can help assess exposure at different levels.

Local uses of the wind forecast

Wind information is valuable for several activities in Kilkeel. The agri-food sector and farming operations, such as spraying or timing silage, rely on accurate wind data to optimise work and minimise drift. The fishing industry, a significant part of the county's economy, uses wind forecasts for operational planning and safety at sea. For sailing and marine leisure, including activities at Carlingford Marina, understanding current and forecast wind conditions is crucial for navigation and enjoyment. Building and roofing work also benefits from wind awareness, particularly when working at height. For walking, such as on Slieve Donard, wind strength and direction can impact comfort and planning.

Near Kilkeel

Kilkeel is in Co. Down, one of 37 towns we publish for the county. The nearest observing stations are George Best Belfast City Airport EGAC (METAR) (62 km), Belfast International Airport EGAA (METAR) (68 km) and Dublin Airport (72 km). The closest wind farm in our guide is Bessy Bell Wind Farm, about 108 km away.

Nearest spots

Questions about wind in Kilkeel

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