A Status Yellow High Temperature warning has been issued for 12 counties as Ireland prepares for an official heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 27C and potentially reach 30C in some areas over the coming days.
The warning covers Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford. It comes into effect at 1pm on Friday and remains in place until 7am on Saturday. Forecasters say overnight temperatures will stay above 15C, increasing the risk of heat-related health issues.
Met Éireann meteorologist Deirdre Lowe said the current spell of hot weather is expected to continue through much of next week, with conditions becoming hotter and more humid.
"It will certainly be a heatwave for parts of the country," she said, noting that temperatures in the Midlands, west and southwest are likely to remain in the high 20s, while eastern counties may be slightly cooler on Sunday and Monday due to a sea breeze.
High pressure extending from the Azores is responsible for the prolonged settled conditions. Lowe said that although weak weather fronts may bring occasional cloud to northern and western areas, sunshine will dominate across the country from later in the weekend.
By the middle of next week, temperatures could climb to 30C in some locations. Moore Park in Co Cork is expected to officially record heatwave conditions if temperatures exceed 25C for a third consecutive day.
While the warm weather is welcome, Met Éireann has warned of high to very high UV levels, urging people to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and take care around water. There is also a possibility of isolated thunderstorms early next week, although current forecasts suggest they will remain south of Ireland.
Minister for Older People Kieran O'Donnell has urged people to check on elderly relatives and neighbours during the hot spell.
"Small actions can make a significant difference, such as encouraging regular drinking of water, keeping homes cool and avoiding outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day," he said. Anyone showing signs of heat stress should be moved to a cool place, given water and medical advice sought if necessary.
Meanwhile, Uisce Éireann has introduced overnight water restrictions on 13 supplies, mainly affecting parts of Kilkenny, Tipperary, Donegal, Cork and Meath, to protect water resources during increased demand. Households are being encouraged to conserve water by fixing leaks, running full appliance loads and avoiding unnecessary use.
The hot, dry conditions have also prompted wildfire concerns. The Department of Agriculture has issued an Orange wildfire warning, while Dublin Fire Brigade has appealed to the public not to use disposable barbecues or portable gas stoves in parks, forests or other open areas due to the heightened fire risk.
Forecasters say this is Ireland's third warm spell of the summer and, while unusually long-lasting, residents are being encouraged to enjoy the sunshine responsibly.
