Dublin: Ireland is currently experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels. The Met Éireann has issued a high-temperature warning and is advising the public—particularly motorists—to take extra precautions to protect their health, vehicles, and safety during the extreme weather.
On Saturday afternoon, Mount Dillon in County Roscommon recorded a scorching 31.1°C, the highest temperature in Ireland’s recorded history. Other areas such as Oak Park (Carlow), Shannon Airport, and Mullingar also exceeded 30°C, while Magilligan in Northern Ireland experienced its first 30-degree day since July 18, 2022.
Unusual for Ireland, these conditions resemble summer temperatures more typical of Portugal or Spain.
Weather Forecast and Warnings
Forecasters expect hot and humid conditions to continue through Sunday and Monday, with light rainfall possible in Connacht and western Leinster by Sunday evening. A high-temperature warning remains in place for multiple counties until 6 PM Sunday, as temperatures are expected to remain above 30°C.
Safety at Beaches and Lakes
The RNLI and Water Safety Ireland have issued urgent water safety warnings, advising people:
- Not to swim alone.
- Only visit lifeguarded beaches.
- Swim between the designated red and yellow flags.
- Closely supervise children in and around the water.
Vehicle Safety Tips Amid the Heat
Motorists are urged to be especially cautious during this period of extreme heat. The Met Office has issued a list of important safety considerations:
1. Avoid Leaving Bottled Water in Cars
- Prolonged exposure to heat can cause chemicals from plastic bottles to leach into the water, making it unsafe to drink.
- In rare cases, sunlight refracted through water bottles has caused fires inside vehicles. It’s safest to remove bottles when exiting the car or store them away from direct sunlight.
2. Store Medicines Properly
- Many medications, including over-the-counter ones like paracetamol or children’s syrups, are stable only up to 25°C.
- High temperatures inside a vehicle can reduce their effectiveness.
- Experts advise removing medicines from dashboards and storing them in a cool or refrigerated environment if needed.
3. Protect Sunscreen
- Sunscreen left in hot cars can degrade or explode under extreme heat.
- To maintain its effectiveness, store sunscreen in a shaded or cool area, and avoid leaving it inside the car.
Essential Car Checks for Hot Weather
- Fuel: Always keep ample fuel in the tank, as engines may be less efficient in high heat and traffic delays are more likely during summer travel.
- Coolant & Oil: Ensure the coolant level and engine oil are topped up to prevent overheating.
- Air Conditioning: Verify that the AC system is functioning well and is topped with refrigerant gas if necessary.
- Screenwash: Keep screenwash fluid filled to maintain clear visibility, especially due to increased dust and insects in the air.
- Fresh Drinking Water: Always have fresh water on hand for hydration during journeys.
If your engine shows signs of overheating, pull over safely and allow it to cool before resuming travel.
As the heatwave continues, experts stress the importance of preparedness and caution, whether on the road, at the beach, or at home. With conditions expected to remain extreme over the coming days, adhering to safety guidelines could make all the difference.
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