A Status Yellow high temperature warning has been issued for Leinster and Tipperary, with temperatures expected to climb above 27C as Ireland experiences another spell of hot weather.
The warning will come into effect at 6am tomorrow and remain in place until 6am on Friday. Met Éireann has warned that the elevated temperatures could lead to a number of impacts, including increased water safety risks as more people visit beaches, lakes and rivers.
The forecaster has also highlighted the potential for uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress and concerns around animal welfare. Overnight temperatures are expected to remain high, with minimum temperatures staying above 15C and making conditions particularly muggy.
The warm weather is being driven by an area of high pressure over Ireland, which has moved north from the Azores. Met Éireann said the latest hot spell will begin today, with “very warm” conditions expected in parts of the country and temperatures reaching 27C in the east.
However, the current conditions are also putting further pressure on water supplies. Uisce Éireann's national water conservation order, commonly known as the hosepipe ban, is to remain in place for another two weeks and is currently scheduled to end on 26 August.
The utility has said several water schemes are experiencing shortages, with reservoir levels remaining low following prolonged periods of below-average rainfall. People are being urged to continue conserving water while the restrictions remain in force.
Meteorologist Liz Walsh said a change in the weather is expected on Friday, when low pressure moving in from the Atlantic will bring cooler and wetter conditions.
The weekend forecast remains unsettled and uncertain. Saturday is expected to bring sunny spells along with some showers, while Sunday could see more widespread wet weather.
The heat is also being felt across the Irish Sea. Amber heat health alerts are in place across England, where temperatures are forecast to reach the mid-30s in many areas through Friday.
Authorities in the UK have warned of an increased risk of heat-related deaths, while officials say more than 70% of England is now experiencing drought conditions.
With hot weather and dry conditions continuing, people are being advised to take precautions against heat stress, stay hydrated and exercise particular care around water.
