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As leaves continue to fall and the air grows crisper, Northern Ireland is set to transition into the heart of autumn as the clocks change next weekend.

At 02:00 BST on 27 October clocks will go back by one hour, providing an extra hour in bed for many.

However, it also signals the steady approach of shorter days and longer nights until the winter solstice on 21 December.

The winter solstice is commonly known as the shortest day of the year, a date marking the 24-hour period with the fewest daylight hours.

The clock change is rooted in a century-old practice designed to make better use of daylight during the winter months.

By shifting an hour of sunlight from the evening to the morning, the goal is to provide brighter mornings during the darker season.

However, while the promise of an extra hour in bed sounds appealing,

In terms of weather, autumn is already making its presence felt across the island.

The typical weather for this time of year across Ireland features cooler temperatures,

Rain showers are frequent, and the winds can pick up significantly, especially along the coasts.

As we move deeper into the season, October often brings more overcast skies and the possibility of frosty mornings, as well as the occasional storm system sweeping in from the Atlantic.

The shift in clocks may provide a little more morning light, but early sunsets will become the norm, making the evenings feel longer and encouraging cosy nights indoors.

With autumn in full swing, it’s a time to prepare for the darker, colder months ahead.

Whether it’s bundling up for brisk walks in the countryside or settling in with a warm drink as the rain beats against the window, the clock change is a reminder that winter is just around the corner.