IF YOU’RE FITTING in some last minute Christmas shopping today then you’d best take an umbrella with you just in case.

There is a risk of flooding over parts of Ireland today as heavy rain is forecast in Ulster and Connacht this morning.

The rain will be lighter as it moves southeastwards this afternoon and this evening with clear spells and showers expected to follow from the northwest.

Here’s how much wetter it’s got over the country in the last few hours:

weather 23122014 Met Éireann Met Éireann

Despite it being December, the temperatures will remain relatively mild with highs of between 8 to 12 degrees with strong, gusty winds coming from the southwest.

It is forecast to get a bit colder tomorrow, Christmas Eve, with a cold, bright and fresh day ahead of Santa’s arrival.

Read: Someone on the RTÉ weather was VERY excited to see Santa

Read: This actress, presenter and voice-over artist will be the face of UTV weather in 10 days

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It's pretty wet and windy over most of Ireland right now

Read: Someone on the RTÉ weather was VERY excited to see Santa

Read: This actress, presenter and voice-over artist will be the face of UTV weather in 10 days

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.