Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow High Temperature warning for a number of counties including Clare.
Forecasters say we can expected maximum temperatures in excess of 27 degrees combined with overnight temperature minimums in excess of 15 degrees.
The warning follows a Weather Advisory issued by Met Éireann earlier in the week.
The other affected counties are Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Cork, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.
While temperatures are expected are expected to reach the mid to high 20s today, the warning won’t come into effect until 1.00pm on Sunday, remaining in place until 7.00am on Tuesday.
Impacts
The very warm or hot weather may produce some uncomfortable conditions, particularly at night.
With widespread sunshine, UV levels will be high or very high, so please follow the guidance from the HSE’s SunSmart campaign,
Heat stress may pose an issue. Useful guidance from the HSE can be found here.
There will be an increase in people heading to beaches, lakes and waterways to cool down in the heat, so please take precautions from Water Safety Ireland to stay safe, watersafety.ie.
The very warm and dry weather also brings the potential for wildfires and forest fires, with an increase in outdoor activities likely. Useful guidance can be found here.
Public Safety Advice
Public Health is a significant consideration during high-temperature events, and the public is advised to:
Stay in the shade.
Avoid going out or partaking in strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Apply UVA and UVB sunscreen to skin that is not covered, factor 30+ for adults and 50+ for children.
The Health Services Executive (HSE) have specific and comprehensive advice on staying safe in hot weather, and this can be accessed here.
Water Safety
If you’re planning an activity in or on the water, remember:
Swim at a lifeguarded waterway if possible.
Swim within your depth, stay within your depth.
Avoid entering the water in locks, marinas and harbours where hidden hazards may be present.
Supervise children: Never leave them unattended near water.
Avoid alcohol before swimming, operating watercraft or being near water, as it impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
Be aware that cold water temperatures can also cause cold water shock, increasing the risk of drowning.
Pay attention to all water safety signs and warnings and carry a means of calling for help.
Check tides and updated weather warnings.
Always wear a correctly fitting serviced lifejacket or buoyancy aid when boating or participating in water sports.
Let others know where you are going and when you expect to return.
For more water safety information, contact www.watersafety.ie.
Fire Safety
The High Temperatures will likely bring an increase in outdoor activities, and the public is reminded that everybody has a part to play in protecting our unique rural landscapes, communities, habitats and forest resources from the threats posed by wildfire.
If you are out and about enjoying our countryside and forests this summer, please help to reduce the risks of fire by keeping the following in mind:
Do not light fires in or near woodland. Use only designated barbecue points where available. Thoroughly soak BBQ embers after use and make sure that they are extinguished completely.
Do not block forest entrances or roads when parking – access may be required by the fire service or forestry personnel in the event of an emergency.
If you see a fire, report it immediately to the emergency services – Dial 999 or 112.
Report any illegal and suspicious activity to the Gardai. Note that the burning of growing vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August each year is prohibited by law.
Do not approach fires or attempt to extinguish fires yourself. Wildfires can be extremely dangerous and can rapidly change direction and behaviour.
Further advice is available from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
