Twelfth weather: What’s in store for Northern Ireland’s July parades?

“As we start the week,” a Met Office spokesman said, “signals of low pressure will continue to control the weather across the UK.

“This could cause some sporadic showers but also some sunny spells, but the overall feeling of unsettled weather will continue into Tuesday and Wednesday.”

Bands and protesters will take to the streets at 19 locations across all six counties in Northern Ireland to mark the 334th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne next Friday.

The spokesman said there would be a change in weather conditions towards the end of next week, with rain and wind in the west and more stable and warm weather in the east.

“Further ahead, regional forecasts are difficult to come by, but towards the end of the week, a northwest/southeast split in conditions looks most likely, with low pressure in the northwest affecting western areas of the region, with rain and wind at times, and a more settled picture to the east, with some warm weather arriving,” they said.

“A choppy signal at the end of next week’s business week will remain through the weekend, but that doesn’t necessarily rule out any possibilities for brighter periods as well.”

On Saturday 13 July, parades will take place in Bangor and Scarva for the annual Sham Fight, where thousands of spectators are expected to flock to the Co Down village.

This year’s event will feature nine visiting preceptories, including visitors from Australia and New Zealand, who will join the parade of 4,000 members of the Royal Black Institution and around 85 bands.

But if you are planning to visit the event, don’t forget to bring an umbrella in case you get caught in a downpour or two.

Football fans watching the Euro 2024 final, which will take place in Berlin next Sunday, may want to stay home to watch the sporting event.

“Temperatures are likely to be slightly above average for this time of year, but given the volatile nature of the weather front, it probably won’t be that way for many, with a few showers around,” the spokesperson advised, noting that the average for this time of year is usually around 18°C.

“There is a lot of variability in the weather model over this range, especially in summer when we run the models multiple times, so it is worth staying up to date with the latest weather forecast closer to the date,” they added.

“It might not feel particularly warm if you get caught out by a shower or two, but there are chances of sunny spells in between, which can be quite pleasant in the sun.”

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