Yellow high temperature warning in effect in 13 counties

A high temperature warning is in effect for 13 counties in Ireland, with temperatures reaching 30C at certain weather stations. This is the fourth consecutive month where a primary weather station in Ireland has hit 30C, surpassing the previous record of two months set in 1976 and 2022. The status yellow alert, valid until Friday morning, warns of potential heat stress, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, water safety issues, and animal welfare concerns.

Senior forecaster Gerry Murphy emphasized the seriousness of the warning, stating that it is as significant as previous heat alerts issued this summer. The warning is in place from 6am to 6am on Friday, with temperatures expected to exceed 27C during the day and 15C at night. The main difference with this alert compared to earlier ones is its shorter duration.

While August is typically warm, temperatures reaching 30.4C in Carlow are unusual for this time of year. A national water conservation order from Uisce Éireann remains in effect for two more weeks due to low reservoir levels caused by prolonged periods of low rainfall. Meanwhile, temperatures are forecast to surpass 35C for millions of people across Europe today, particularly in Western and Southern Europe, including France, Italy, and Spain.

The UK is also expected to record its hottest summer ever, with temperatures expected to reach 33C today and potentially 37C or 38C tomorrow.