People are being asked to take care during high temperatures as a weather advisory in the Republic of Ireland has been extended until Friday next week.
The Irish national weather agency said a “prolonged” spell of very warm or hot weather will continue this weekend, lasting into next week.
Highest temperatures during the day will exceed 25C and rise into the 30s in places, along with a UV index of “high to very high”, and a chance of thunderstorms on Wednesday and Thursday.
It will be cooler and cloudier in the north west on Friday, but will become sunnier over the weekend.
Met Éireann said the nights will be warm and humid, with overnight temperatures remaining above 15C.
It warned of potential water safety issues due to increased use of waterways, lakes and beaches – as well as uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress and dehydration.
The public have been reminded that water safety is not just about swimming or water sports, but is relevant to all activities as data shows that most accidental drownings followed activities such as walking, angling, cycling, or spending time near the water.
Met Éireann also raised concern over potential droughts and wildfires; people are being asked to play their part in protecting rural landscapes, communities, habitats and forests from the threats posed by wildfires while outside.
A status yellow high temperature warning also applies to 13 counties, with temperatures of 27C expected over the weekend – and uncomfortable nights.
It applies until 7am for Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Cork, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.
Consultant in Public Health Medicine Dr Caitriona Kelly warned that high temperatures can cause people to become very sick and reminded people to drink water even if they do not feel thirsty.
People are also being asked to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion – which include dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating, muscle cramps and weakness.
“We are urging people to keep cool and stay hydrated during the hot weather,” she said.
“This is especially important for older people, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions.”
Hospital staff are also struggling to look after their patients during the recent spates of high temperatures.
“Many hospitals, including maternity hospitals, are older buildings where airflow is sub-optimal,” said INMO general secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha.
“Many of our members, and the patients they are trying their best to provide safe care to, are exposed to poor ventilation, sunlight, and are enduring as a result very high temperatures.
“The INMO, along with other healthcare unions, have written to the HSE regarding rising temperatures asking them to ensure that work conditions are appropriate for staff and the patients in their care.
“According to our members, the response from the HSE has been less than satisfactory and has made no practical difference.
“As temperatures continue to rise, we will continue to pursue this as a health and safety issue for our members.”
Road users are also being advised to be aware of sun glare, ensure they have water in their cars and to watch out for vulnerable road users as the summertime is the most dangerous time for road accidents.
Housing Minister James Browne said: “This prolonged period of very warm weather will place additional pressure on people, services and local water supplies.
“I am asking the public to look out for those who may need assistance and use water responsibly, follow the advice of the HSE, Met Éireann and the emergency services. Small precautions taken now can significantly reduce the risks.”
The UK Met Office said temperatures could rise to 27C in Northern Ireland over the weekend.
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