More glorious sunshine is expected this weekend, with the potential for record temperatures in some parts of the country.
We can expect highs of 30C on Saturday, with a nationwide high temperature warning in place from noon until 6am Sunday. But Met Éireann does not expect the national temperature record to be broken.
It says the highest ever temperature of 33.3C – at Kilkenny Castle in 1887 – is unlikely to be reached but ‘many local records may well be broken’.
Temperatures in Northern Ireland are set to reach around 25C over the weekend. The Met Office forecasts temperatures to hit 26 degrees and to rise over the coming days.
Sunday will start out fine with sunny spells and light winds. It will be very warm with highest temperatures of 22-28 degrees – prompting the RNLI to urge families to put safety first, telling those planning a trip to the coast or inland waterways to make sure they keep everyone safe.
They have urged people to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flag check the forecast and tide times, and read local hazard signage. Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI water safety lead, said: ‘We are expecting people to head to the coast during the hot weather, it is a great way to have fun, relax and cool off in high temperatures.
'Choosing a lifeguarded beach will mean our lifeguards can ensure you enjoy a safe visit. Please head to a lifeguarded beach, swim between flags. Remember: where there are no flags, there are no lifeguards.
‘If you find yourself in trouble – Float To Live. Knowing this technique and encouraging your family to practise it, could save your life. Whether you get into difficulty in the water at the coast or on any of our inland waters, Float To Live: tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to.
‘It’s fine if your legs sink – we all float differently. By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety.’
Water Safety Ireland urged anyone visiting the beach to enter the water slowly. It said: ‘Whether you’re swimming, surfing, or paddle-boarding, make safety your top priority. Enter the water slowly to avoid cold water shock. Supervise children and hold their hand near water. Never use inflatables in open water.’
Sunday night will become cloudy with freshening southerly breezes. The good weather will be largely gone by Monday, which will be cloudy and unsettled, with a band of rain moving over the country during the morning. The highest temperatures will be between 18 and 22 degrees.
Tuesday will be another unsettled and cooler day with a mix of scattered showers and blustery winds but some sunny spells too, with highs of 17 to 21 degrees.
