Ireland is set to experience its hottest day yet as a Status Yellow heat warning covering the entire country comes into effect at noon today, with temperatures forecast to soar to 30 degrees in some areas.
Met Éireann confirmed this week’s exceptional hot spell will continue, bringing very warm conditions with highest temperatures ranging from 26 to 30 degrees nationwide. The warning remains valid until 6am tomorrow morning.
The day started warm, with temperatures at 7am already reaching 18 degrees in most areas and hitting 20 degrees in Valencia, Co Kerry. By 10am, the mercury had climbed to an average of 23 degrees, with Oak Park weather station in Co Carlow recording 26 degrees.
An earlier heat warning affecting 14 counties lifted at 6am this morning, making way for today’s expanded nationwide alert.
While southwestern regions may experience patchy morning fog, this will clear quickly to reveal dry and sunny conditions with light to moderate southeasterly winds across the country.
However, relief may be temporary, as Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow thunderstorm warning for Connacht tomorrow from 3pm to 10pm. Heavy, thundery downpours are expected with a risk of surface water flooding in parts of the province.
Tonight’s conditions will remain dry but muggy, with Met Éireann warning of uncomfortable sleeping conditions due to the ongoing heat spell. The meteorological service advises residents to prepare for another challenging night as temperatures remain elevated.
The exceptional weather continues Ireland’s hottest period of the year, with the combination of high daytime temperatures and warm nights creating particularly challenging conditions for those without adequate cooling systems.