Longest heatwave on record could be matched today

Met Éireann has said there is a possibility that the longest heatwave on record may be matched today.

The longest heatwave on record was 14 days from 14-27 August 1976.

However, as it stands, Met Éireann said it was unlikely the record would be broken tomorrow, but it might come close.

A heatwave is technically five consecutive days of 25C and over.

A weather advisory for high temperatures is in place until Monday.

Met Éireann has said that while temperatures will fall back somewhat from recent high levels, impacts will still be felt from the prolonged spell of very warm or hot and dry weather.

They urged people to be careful around water with an increased use of waterways, lakes and beaches.

They also said that people may experience some heat stress and dehydration, especially the vulnerable and elderly. They advised people to be aware of animal welfare issues, as well as drought concerns, wildfires and forest fires.

Today it will be warm and dry for most with the sunniest conditions in the midlands, south and east, and highest temperatures of 23C to 26C. Cloudier in the north and northwest with highest temperatures there of 17C to 22C in a light to moderate northerly breeze.

Tonight it will be dry and largely clear with isolated mist patches developing. Fresher than recent nights with lowest temperatures of 9C to 13C degrees in a light northerly or variable breeze.

Tomorrow is forecast to be dry and clear in most places. It will be cloudier in Ulster and north Connacht with a few patches of drizzle. Lowest temperatures of 10C to 14C degrees in a light northerly breeze.

Monday will become cloudier overall, with sunny spells over the southern half of the country.

Most places will remain dry but patches of drizzle will affect parts of Connacht, Ulster and north Leinster.

Warm in Leinster and Munster with highest temperatures of 20C to 25C degrees. Cooler in Ulster and Connacht with highest temperatures of 17C to 20C degrees in moderate northerly winds.