The national forecaster defines a heatwave as five or more consecutive days with temperatures reaching at least 25°C. The record heatwave in 1976 lasted 14 days, from 14 August to 27 August.
Today marks the 13th consecutive day of the current heatwave, with a high-temperature advisory remaining in place until Monday. Nearly 50 years after the record-breaking spell of 1976, Ireland is now on the verge of matching—and potentially exceeding—that milestone.
However, there is one important condition. To officially break the record, temperatures of 25°C or higher must be recorded at the same weather station on each qualifying day. Met Éireann says that is unlikely, as the hottest temperatures are expected to shift location as the heatwave progresses.
Although temperatures are forecast to ease slightly over the coming days, Met Éireann has warned that the risks associated with prolonged hot weather will remain. The forecaster is continuing to advise the public to take precautions, highlighting concerns around wildfires, impacts on wildlife, water safety and heat-related health risks.
The prolonged dry conditions have contributed to an increase in wildfires across Ireland, including recent blazes in Wicklow and Killarney. In response to the heightened fire risk, retailers including Tesco have removed disposable barbecues from sale. There is currently an orange wildfire warning in place.
A hosepipe ban remains in effect across Dublin and several other counties including Meath, Wexford and Wicklow as authorities attempt to conserve water supplies. The restrictions are expected to stay in place for six weeks.
