Northern Ireland recorded 23.6 hours of sunshine in February, equivalent to 35 percent of the 30-year average. This total ranks among the lowest on record, exceeding only the 24.6 hours in 1993.

Rainfall across the region reached 115mm for the month to date, surpassing the 91.5mm average by 26 percent. County Down experienced nearly double its typical amount. For the full winter season ending Sunday, average rainfall stood at 411.5mm, 26 percent above normal.

In County Down, winter totals hit 487.3mm, the highest since 2015. Meteorologist Honor Criswick attributed this to a January record of 230.1mm, topping the prior mark of 218mm from 1948. The provincial record remains 527.8mm from 1877.

Met Office forecasts indicate dry conditions today turning to rain this afternoon, with a high of 8C. Expect cloudy skies and rain Sunday to Monday, possibly drier Tuesday, followed by improving high-pressure weather.