Met Éireann has issued an orange-level thunderstorm warning for three counties as Ireland continues to experience sweltering conditions, with temperatures potentially challenging the all-time record of 33.3°C set in 1887.
Orange Warning for Cork, Kerry, and Waterford
The orange-level warning is in effect from 4pm to 7pm on Thursday for Cork, Kerry, and Waterford. Forecasters warn of “extreme thunderstorm activity” that could develop over parts of Ireland, particularly in the northwest and west, if necessary triggers of moisture, instability, and a lifting mechanism are met.
Widespread Yellow Warnings Across the Island
A separate yellow-level thunderstorm warning for Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo applies from 3pm Thursday to 9am Friday. Another yellow warning has been issued for 16 counties from 9am to 6pm on Friday: Cavan, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Leitrim, Laois, Longford, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary, and Westmeath.
Both Met Éireann and the UK Met Office have issued warnings, meaning the entire island will be under some form of weather advisory into Friday. The UK Met Office yellow warning for Northern Ireland is in place from midnight to 10am on Friday.
Potential for Record-Breaking Heat
Temperatures in the Republic of Ireland exceeded 30°C by 2pm on Thursday. Met Éireann meteorologist Gerry Murphy said there is potential for the all-time record of 33.3°C to be challenged, but it is not certain. Factors such as cloud cover and developing thunderstorms could cap temperatures. Northern Ireland’s record of 31.3°C, set on July 21, 2021, could also be approached.
The continued high temperatures mean parts of Ireland could officially experience a heatwave by Friday, after five consecutive summer days above 25°C.
Risks and Impacts
Met Éireann warned of torrential downpours leading to flooding, lightning damage, large hail, hazardous driving conditions, and very gusty winds. There could also be damage to power, water, gas, and telecommunication utilities. The high temperatures bring water safety issues due to increased use of lakes and beaches, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress, and possible forest fires.
The UK Met Office said heavy showers and thunderstorms may bring disruption, with a small chance of rapid flooding and damage to buildings from floodwater, lightning, hail, or strong winds. Power cuts and loss of other services are possible.
Climate Context
Ireland’s climate is projected to get warmer, with average temperatures increasing across all seasons. Seven of the top 10 warmest years have occurred since 2005, with 2023 being the second warmest on record. Further warming increases the likelihood of extreme weather events. The country will become wetter overall, with wetter winters and drier summers, and more frequent droughts projected for summer and spring. Sea-level rise will increase exposure to coastal flooding, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
