Thursday is forecast to be the hottest day of the week in Ireland, with temperatures potentially reaching 31C in some areas, according to Met Éireann. A status yellow high temperature warning has been in effect for every county in the Republic of Ireland since midday on Tuesday and is due to expire at 9am on Friday.
Warning Details and Impacts
The warning includes concerns about water safety due to increased use of lakes and beaches, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress, and the risk of forest fires. Mark Bowe, a meteorologist with Met Éireann, said “very high” temperatures will continue. Wednesday saw highs of around 27-28C and overnight lows above 15C.
Thursday's Peak and Thunderstorm Risk
Mr Bowe stated: “Thursday – that’s set to be the hottest day of the week. All that warm air will have fully arrived from Europe and temperatures are expected to be widespread over 25C – reaching around 30 or possibly 31C in parts of the Midlands and Connacht.” He also noted a risk of thunderstorms, with the north west possibly experiencing heavy showers on Friday afternoon.
Cooler Weekend Ahead
Temperatures are expected to “take a bit of a slide” on Friday, with “a few more showers moving in”. The UK Met Office forecast maximum temperatures of 24C in Northern Ireland on Wednesday, potentially rising to 27C for Thursday. The outlook into the weekend projects showers or longer outbreaks of rain on Friday and Saturday, with rain “perhaps heavy and thundery at times”.
