ieExplains: What is a heat dome? The phenomenon breaking temperature records across Europe

People enjoy the hot weather on Bournemouth beach in Dorset. Picture:PA

Ireland is set to see temperatures as high as 30C, while parts of Europe could see the mercury rise to 40C, with forecasters warning that a “heat dome” could bring exceptional heat.

France’s national weather agency said the record temperatures were caused by a heat dome, with hot air from Morocco trapped under an area of high pressure.