Heatwave to continue for another week

Ireland’s summer is set to continue for another week, according to Met Éireann.

The country continued to bask in Mediterranean- like weather yesterday with temperatures topping 30C in parts.

Today will be another sunny day with temperatures in the mid to high 20s, and a risk of isolated thunderstorms.

However, while tomorrow will be dry in Leinster and Ulster with sunny spells, heavy or thundery showers are likely in parts of Munster and Connaught from around noon onwards.

There will be a risk of heavy thundery showers at times in many areas next week, with day temperatures reaching between 25 and 29C and possibly reaching 30C in parts of the Midlands.

Met Éireann forecaster Joanna Donnelly said many areas would remain in a drought situation next week, particularly along the east coast. “Thundery showers will interrupt an otherwise sunny day, with temperatures reaching in excess of 20 degrees.”

She said the reason for the continuing hot weather was because an area of high pressure had become established over the country. “We call it a blocking high and once it becomes established it tends to be difficult to shift,” she said.

Meanwhile, a number of county and city councils have issued water conservation and wildfire warnings.

Age Action is also urging people to check on older neighbours, especially those living alone. Spokesman Eamon Timmins said the hot weather could pose difficulties for older people, especially those with respiratory and heart problems. Certain medications could also reduce people’s tolerance of heat.