Explained: When does the hot weather turn into a heatwave?

As the country is enjoying the good weather, Met Éireann has pinpointed when the sunny conditions could officially turn into a heatwave.

The yellow alert for high temperatures kicked in for 12 counties and will last until next Friday.

Temperatures could be as high as 29 degrees over the weekend, with Met Éireann predicting temperatures could get as high as 30 degrees and higher next Thursday.

In Ireland, it must be over 25 degrees for five or more consecutive days for it to be considered a heatwave.

The current forecast shows parts of the country will experience a heatwave with the temperatures set to be constantly over the 25-degree mark.

There is currently a yellow high temperature warning for Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford.

Met Éireann is warning of water safety issues due to increased use of lakes, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress, and the possibility of forest fires.

During the heat advisory, Met Éireann is warning of potential disruption to public transport, animal welfare issues, and potential drought concerns.

Saturday will be another very warm day, and most of the country will stay dry with long spells of sunshine. However, it will turn cloudier at times over Ulster, and the odd shower is possible there.

Highest temperatures of 24 to 29 degrees generally but a few degrees cooler in the northwest.

Sunday will be dry with sunshine for most, though cloudier at times in the north.

A few stray showers are possible. Highest temperatures of 22 to 29 degrees, coolest for eastern coasts with mostly moderate easterly winds developing.

Monday will be dry and sunny, with the sunshine turning hazy from the south later. Some heavier showers may clip southern coastal areas in the evening. Highest temperatures of 20 to 28 degrees.