Hot weather advisory extended until late next week
James Cox
The yellow alert for high temperatures that kicked in for 12 counties at lunchtime today has been extended until Friday of next week.
The national weather agency said a “prolonged spell of very warm or hot weather” will continue this weekend, lasting into next week.
Highest temperatures during the day will “widely exceed” 25C and into the 30s in places, along with a UV index of “high to very high”.
Met Éireann said warm and humid nights will occur, with overnight temperatures remaining above 15C, and a chance of thunderstorms on Wednesday and Thursday.
It warned of potential water safety issues due to increased use of waterways, lakes and beaches as well as uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress and dehydration.
Met Éireann also raised concern over potential droughts and wildfires.
The advisory had been due to expire on Tuesday.
People have been urged to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and be careful of glaring sun while driving.
A status yellow high temperature warning also applies to 13 counties, with temperatures of 27C expected over the weekend – and uncomfortable nights.
It applies until 7am for Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Cork, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.
The UK Met Office said temperatures could rise to 27C in Northern Ireland over the weekend.
The UV Index is also expected to be high to very high, with Met Éireann advising of further possible “tropical nights” over the weekend and some thunderstorms.
Met Éireann's forecast for Friday reads: "A very warm or hot day for most today. Dry for most with hazy sunny spells but with mist and fog in places early this morning. Highest temperatures of 21 to 29 degrees, warmest in the south, with light, occasionally moderate north or northeast breezes. Cooler and cloudier in the west and northwest with isolated showers before brightening up later."
Saturday will see highs of 29 degrees.
Met Éireann said the warm weather is likely to last until at least Thursday, while "temperatures will likely fall back closer to average for next Friday and the weekend".
Additional reporting: PA
