Highs of 29C as Met Éireann says tropical nights possible

Met Éireann has said uncomfortable sleeping conditions are expected over the weekend with overnight temperatures set to exceed 15C.

A Status Yellow High Temperature warning will come into effect from 1pm this afternoon for 12 counties, with consistent daytime highs of over 27C expected.

The warning covers counties Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.

It will remain in place until 7am on Sunday.

Temperatures are forecast to hit 29C today, with conditions warmest in the south. Met Éireann said heatwave conditions are expected to last into next week.

The forecaster has advised the high temperatures could result in tropical nights leading to uncomfortable sleeping conditions, as well as heat stress and dehydration – particularly among older people.

Caution has been urged too around waterways due to increased use of lakes and beaches.