Weather advisory issued for Ireland as heatwave conditions expected

A weather advisory has been issued for the island of Ireland covering the period from Wednesday until the following Tuesday, 14 July. Daytime maximum temperatures are expected to exceed 25C widely, with values climbing to the high 20s or low 30s in places from Friday.

In Northern Ireland, temperatures are forecast to reach the low to mid-20s at times, while the Republic, particularly the southeast, could see highs in the high 20s toward the end of the week.

Heatwave thresholds For Northern Ireland, a heatwave requires temperatures of 25C or above for at least three consecutive days. Current forecasts suggest conditions could approach this threshold. In the Republic, the requirement is five consecutive days at the threshold temperature, which also appears likely.

If heatwave conditions are met, it would mark the second heatwave of the summer, coming two weeks after the previous one that included Northern Ireland's hottest June day on record.

Advisories and potential impacts Met Éireann has advised of possible tropical nights, where temperatures do not fall below 20C, in a few spots by the weekend. Warm and humid nights with minimums of 15C or higher are also expected. The advisory lists 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 also notes potential disruption to public transport, drought concerns, and the risk of wildfires and forest fires. The public has been advised to check forecasts and warnings as well as water safety protocols. There is also the chance of some thunderstorms later this week.