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19th Jul 2021

It’s hot now and Met Éireann says it’s going to get even hotter in the coming days

Alan Loughnane

What is the weather like this week?

It’s not over yet.

Ireland recorded its highest temperature of the year over the weekend with temperatures rising to 29.5 degrees in Athenry, Galway and 31.2 degrees in Ballywatticock, Down.

Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, Met Éireann’s Aoife Kealy said that the current conditions will likely remain until Thursday, however there could be a slight change towards less warm conditions next weekend.

“We’re likely to see that [temperature] exceeded in the coming days,” Kealy said.

“We’re likely to see the the conditions staying pretty much the same out until about Thursday but we are looking at a slight change from Friday onwards.

“There is still some uncertainty towards that but definitely trending towards a change to slightly less warm conditions at the weekend, but still reaching the low 20s or mid 20s.”

Met Éireann is also cautioning people to be aware of the “real risks” that come with this weather and has issued a high temperature advisory that will remain in place until Friday.

“There are some real risks that come with this weather, it is uncomfortable at times particularly trying to sleep, but there are other factors to consider, things like; heat exhaustion, stress and also high UV levels,” Kealy said.

She added: “It’s also important to give people the heads up that they do have to take care when conditions are like this.”

Over the weekend, The Marie Keating Foundation urged everyone to be ‘SunSmart’ during the unusually hot weather and protect themselves from damaging UV rays and avoid unsafe skin practices.

“It is essential that we do not put our skin, and future health, at risk for the sake of an afternoon in the park,” Bernie Carter, Assistant Director of Nursing Services, Marie Keating Foundation.

“By following the 5 S’s of the SunSmart code, you can enjoy the heatwave, and precious time outdoors this summer safely.”

The 5 S’s of the SunSmart code are:

Slop on sunscreen with a good UV rating and factor 30+ – By wearing sunscreen every day and remembering to reapply you are protecting your skin no matter the weather.

Slip on sun protective clothing – When spending time outdoors it’s important to wear clothes that cover your skin such as hats and anything with long sleeves, to help reduce the impact of the sun’s rays on unprotected skin.

Slap on a wide brimmed hat – Wearing a hat can help to protect the skin on your face, neck and ears from direct sun exposure and will help to reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Slide on sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the suns glare by sliding on a pair of sunglasses with UV protection.

Seek shade – This is especially important if you are outdoors between the hours of 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its peak.

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