Nationwide high-temperature advisory extended for weekend

Adam and Sean O’Toole from Timoleague, Co Cork, make the most of their 'sunroof' as they enjoy the warm weather. Picture: Chani Anderson

A nationwide high-temperature advisory has been extended for the entire weekend.

Met Éireann said the impact of the prolonged spell of hot and dry weather would continue despite temperatures falling “somewhat from recent high levels”.

Potential impacts include water safety issues because of increased use of waterways, lakes, and beaches; some heat stress and dehydration, especially for the vulnerable and elderly; public transport disruption; animal welfare concerns; and potential droughts and wildfires.

The advisory started on Wednesday last week and has been extended to expire at the end of Sunday.

However, a status-yellow high temperature warning applying in nine counties, including Cork, was called off on Friday.

Several areas of the country officially declared heatwaves during the spell of high temperatures.

Parts of south Tipperary, Wexford, Dublin, Kildare, Meath, and Wicklow were also placed under a hosepipe ban from Thursday until August 26.

Beatrice O’Sullivan, Mary Keneally, and Eva Ryan enjoy the sunshine during a sailing camp in Monkstown, Co Cork. Picture: Chani Anderson

Weekend ahead

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

Sunday is also set to be dry, with temperatures lessening to between 21C and 25C. Temperatures will be lower in Connacht and Ulster, ranging from 16C to 21C, 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 21C-25C.