Mini heatwave set to continue today as Met Éireann predicts highs of 23C

Temperatures soared yesterday with most areas across the country experiencing warmth in the high teens or low 20s. The highest recorded temperatures hit 24.3 degrees at Newport Furnace and 23.1 degrees at Claremorris, both in Co. Mayo.

However, unlike the past few days of sunshine, today will be much cloudier with “a dull, murky start in many areas.”

But there’s no need to worry as warm, sunny spells will develop as the low cloud breaks up throughout the afternoon.

The best of the sunshine will hit southern counties, where highest temperatures are predicted to reach 17 to 23 degrees, feeling warmest away from northern and eastern coasts.

While it is less bright and sunny today as in previous days, Met Éireann has issued a reminder to be aware of solar UV levels.

The national forecaster said: “Solar UV levels will be moderate today, Sunday, don't forget to be #SunSmart.”

Moderate solar UV levels require protection and people are encouraged to “apply sunscreen and cover up with protective clothing” as well as seeking shade during midday hours.

Some isolated drizzle may develop on an otherwise dry and cloudy Monday. While some bright spells are likely, it will be slightly breezier than recent days with a light to moderate northeast breeze.

Monday’s temperatures are expected to range from 17 or 18 degrees in eastern and northern counties, feeling hotter towards the west with highs of 19 to 21 degrees.

Tuesday will see similar conditions to Monday with varying cloud cover and brightest weather likely to hit the west and northwest.

A slight chance of drizzle should be expected, but temperatures will remain at the 17 to 20 degree mark.

The rest of the week will continue to be dry “with temperatures back to around average for the time of year, in the high teens or low 20s,” Met Éireann says.