Ireland issues heatwave advisory as temps exceed 25°C

Ireland is preparing for a prolonged and intense heatwave, with the national forecaster issuing a weather advisory warning of potentially record-breaking temperatures and significant public health impacts. The advisory, issued on Monday, July 6, is in effect from midnight on Wednesday, July 8, through Tuesday, July 14.

Met Éireann forecasts a spell of very warm to hot weather, with daytime temperatures widely exceeding 25 degrees Celsius and climbing into the high 20s or low 30s in some areas from Friday, July 10. The UV index is expected to be high to very high throughout the period. Nights will be warm and humid, with temperatures not falling below 15 degrees Celsius in many places, and the possibility of tropical nights, where temperatures stay above 20 degrees, this weekend.

Forecaster Ailís Hankinson stated that the main heat is due from Friday and will be widespread across the country. She explained the conditions are driven by an area of high pressure extending northwards over Ireland, bringing extensive sunshine. While not unprecedented, such consecutive heatwaves are becoming more frequent with climate change, she noted.

Authorities are urging the public to take...