Weekend weather: New heat warning coming into effect at noon

Temperatures are expected to range from 24 degrees to 29 degrees with the warmest conditions in the south.

A new heat warning comes into effect from midday today for much of Munster as the heatwave continues into the weekend.

The yellow warning will be in place until 8pm this evening for Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford, Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois and Offaly.

Met Éireann said potential impacts may include water safety issues due to increased use of lakes, beaches and waterways, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress, forest fires and drought.

Temperatures are expected to range from 24 degrees to 29 degrees with the warmest conditions in the south of the country. 

Weekend ahead

The temperatures will dip slightly on Saturday, ranging from 23 to 27 degrees, again with the best conditions in southern counties.

Sunday is also set to be dry, with temperatures lessening to between 21 and 25 degrees. Temperatures will be lower in Connacht and Ulster, ranging from 16 to 21 degrees according to the national forecaster.

In the long term, dry weather is expected to continue into early next week although conditions are expected to be cloudier. The warmest areas will be in Munster and Leinster, ranging from 21 to 25 degrees.