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Heatwave advisory issued across Ireland

Barra BestSenior weather presenter, BBC News NI
Getty Images A hand holding a brown thermometer in front of waves, clouds and blue skies.Getty Images
Temperatures are forecast to climb to between the low to mid-20s at times

A weather advisory has been issued for the island of Ireland as a prolonged spell of very warm weather develops across the island this week, with heatwave conditions expected for some.

While temperatures in Northern Ireland are forecast to climb to between the low to mid-20s at times, thermometers in the Republic of Ireland - particularly the south east - could reach the high 20s towards the end of the week.

For Northern Ireland to have a heatwave temperatures must reach 25C or above for at least three consecutive days and the current forecast suggest it could come close to that.

In the Republic, that temperature must be recorded for five consecutive days which also looks very likely.

PA Media A red lighthouse stands at the end of a long breakwater, stretching across a calm blue sea, while two people walk a dog across the shallow tidal flats in the foreground.PA Media
Temperatures in the Republic of Ireland are also rising like Dublin Bay a few weeks ago

If heatwave conditions are met, it will be the second heatwave of the summer and comes just two weeks after the previous one in which Northern Ireland recorded its hottest June day on record.

Irish weather service Met Éireann has even advised of possible tropical nights - where temperatures do not fall below 20C - in a few spots by the weekend.

Its weather advisory lasts from Wednesday until the following Tuesday 14 July, with possible impacts including water safety issues on waterways, lakes, and beaches as well as heat stress and dehydration, especially for the vulnerable and elderly.

It has also advised of possible disruption to public transport, drought concerns, and the potential for wildfires and forest fires.

Weather advisory for Ireland

A prolonged spell of very warm or hot weather will occur this week lasting into next week with heatwave conditions expected.

Daytime maximum will widely exceed 25C with values climbing to the high 20s or even low 30s in places from Friday.

The UV Index is expected to be high to very high. Warm and humid nights will occur with minimum of 15 degrees or higher.

Possible tropical nights may occur in places this weekend.

There is also the chance of some thunderstorms later this week.

The public has been advised to check forecast and warnings as well as water safety protocols.

Potential impacts

  • Water safety issues due to increased use of waterways, lakes and beaches
  • Uncomfortable sleeping conditions
  • Heat stress and dehydration, especially for the vulnerable and elderly
  • Potential disruption to public transport
  • Animal welfare issues
  • Potential drought concerns
  • Potential wildfires and forest fires