The National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM) has urged the public to take precautions as Ireland prepares for a spell of exceptionally warm weather, with temperatures forecast to reach 30°C later this week. A yellow high-temperature warning is due to come into effect from midday on Tuesday and remain in place until Friday morning.
The NDFEM said it is working with key agencies and stakeholders to prepare for the expected conditions, which include high daytime temperatures, warm and humid nights and the possibility of thunderstorms.
Director Keith Leonard said the warm weather would be welcomed by many but warned that it also brings risks. “While the warm weather will be welcomed by many, it also brings risks that may not always be obvious or anticipated,” Leonard said. “The public should plan ahead, keep up to date with Met Éireann forecasts and warnings, and take appropriate precautions in relation to heat, water safety, thunderstorms and the possibility of localised flooding.”
Met Éireann has forecast temperatures above 25°C across many areas, with values potentially reaching 30°C on Thursday. Night-time temperatures are expected to remain above 15°C. Thunderstorms are also possible later in the week. Authorities warned that intense downpours could lead to localised flooding, reduced visibility and hazardous road conditions.
Public health advice includes staying in the shade, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, drinking plenty of fluids and using appropriate sun protection.
Water safety agencies, including the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, Waterways Ireland and the RNLI, have also issued a joint appeal for caution. They highlighted that most accidental drownings occur during land-based activities such as walking, angling and cycling near water rather than during organised water sports.
The public is advised to swim only at lifeguarded locations where possible, supervise children near water, avoid alcohol before water activities and wear lifejackets or buoyancy aids when boating. Uisce Éireann has also encouraged customers to conserve water, noting that sustained warm weather can place additional pressure on supplies even where reservoir levels remain stable.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has meanwhile reminded the public of the heightened wildfire risk during hot, dry weather.
People visiting forests and rural areas are advised not to light fires, to use designated barbecue facilities where provided and to report any signs of wildfire immediately by calling 999 or 112. The NDFEM said it will continue to monitor conditions in conjunction with relevant agencies throughout the weather event.
