Met Éireann has issued a high temperature warning for a dozen counties in the Republic of Ireland, as some areas edge closer to official heatwave status. The national forecaster warned that daytime temperatures could exceed 27°C, with overnight lows staying above 15°C, and possible low 30s from Friday.
Affected Counties and Timing
The warning applies to Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath and Wexford. It will be in effect from 1pm on Friday until 7am on Sunday. This is on top of a general warm weather advisory for the entire country, which began on Wednesday and continues until Tuesday.
Health and Safety Risks
Met Éireann highlighted risks including water safety issues, heat stress, and uncomfortable sleeping conditions. The UV Index is expected to be high to very high, and there may be further “tropical nights” over the weekend, along with some thunderstorms. The advisory also raised concerns about potential droughts and wildfires.
Heatwave Criteria
Some areas could officially experience heatwave conditions if their local weather station records a fifth consecutive summer day of 25°C or more. The UK Met Office noted that temperatures of 27°C or 28°C are possible in Northern Ireland on Friday, with values into the mid-20s over the weekend.
