Ireland basks in the hottest weather of the year with temperatures to top 22C

But sun lovers were urged to get out and enjoy the balmy weather - as the forecast is for cooler and more unsettled conditions by midweek.

Temperatures were set to rise to the low twenties on Saturday and in the coming days with good sunny spells in most areas. The highest temperature recorded so far this year was 21.2c in April on Valentia Island, Co Kerry.

But temperatures are set to drop from the middle of next week, with heavy rain forecast on Wednesday.

Met Éireann warned those making the most of the fine weather after a wet and miserable May to be sun smart, with the UV index set to be high over the next few days.

Sunday will be dry in most areas with good sunny periods, though scattered showers may develop. It will be warm, with maximum temperatures of 17-22 degrees in light to moderate southerly breezes.

Dry and clear on Sunday night with light southerly breezes. Mist and fog may affect southern coasts at times. Lowest temperatures of 6-9 degrees.

Monday will be dry and sunny with temperatures reaching 20c inland, though it will be a little cooler on the coasts in light to moderate winds.

Tuesday will become warmer, with temperatures up to 22c inland. Cloud and showers may develop in the west later in the day. Winds light to moderate southeasterly.

Current indications are that after a dry and warm start, cloud and rain will develop on the south coast and move countrywide through the course of the afternoon. Temperatures of 15-17 degrees. The outlook for Thursday and beyond is for more unsettled conditions with showers at times.