Heatwave conditions expected as temperatures to surge into 30s

Met Éireann warned of water safety issues due to increased use of waterways, lakes and beaches, uncomfortable sleeping conditions and have warned people about the possibility of heat stress and dehydration, especially for the vulnerable and elderly.

Ireland is set to be hit by a heatwave, with temperatures forecast to surge into the low 30s.

Met Éireann has said temperatures could climb to the low 30s this week as they issued a weather advisory over expected heatwave conditions.

The weather advisory states that daytime maximums will "widely exceed 25C with values climbing to the high 20C or even low 30C in places from Friday".

The advisory is is in place until Tuesday next week.

The forecaster added there could be potential disruption to public transport, animal welfare issues, as well of potential drought concerns and potential wildfires and forest fires.

Wednesday has started rather cloudy across Atlantic counties, however sunnier skies will develop widely as low cloud burns away. It will be another very warm or hot day for the Midlands, South and East with highest temperatures ranging from 23 to 29C. Highs will range 18C to 24C, warmest inland with low cloud and mist lingering along coastal fringes till later.

The forecaster added possible tropical nights may occur in places this weekend and that there is also the chance of some thunderstorms later this week.

Met Éireann warned of water safety issues due to increased use of waterways, lakes and beaches, uncomfortable sleeping conditions and have warned people about the possibility of heat stress and dehydration, especially for the vulnerable and elderly.

National outlook for rest of week

Thursday will be very warm or hot, as well as mostly sunny across the Midlands, South and East with highs of 24C to 28C. Cloudier to begin elsewhere with perhaps the odd spot of drizzle. Mist and fog in places to begin too, though tending to burn off. Highest temperatures of 18 to 25C, warmest away from coasts.

It will remain very warm or hot on Friday, though cooler for northern fringes, with somewhat cloudier skies across west and northwest counties and isolated showers. Dry elsewhere with summer sunshine, hazy at times. Top temperatures of 21 to 30C, with just light northerly breezes.

Saturday will also be very warm or hot, but cooler for northern fringes. Overall sunny with moderate northeast breezes. Top temperatures of 18 to 30C.

Meanwhile, the forecaster said peak maxima will occur across the western half of the country on Sunday, as an easterly breeze sets in. Again, dry and mostly sunny after a tropical night in places. Top temperatures of 22C to 29C.

It is expected the weather will remain very warm or even hot next week, with blue skies and sunshine.