Ireland is currently experiencing one of the most notable heat spells of summer 2026. After crossing the symbolic 30°C mark, temperatures remain exceptionally high this Thursday, 13 August, particularly in the east and Midlands.
According to the latest forecast from Met Éireann, maximum temperatures are generally expected to reach 23 to 30°C, and locally 31°C, with the highest values forecast in the east of the country. Along the west and south-west coasts, however, the Atlantic influence will keep temperatures at around 20°C.
The good news for travellers who are less comfortable in the heat is that this spell is already drawing to a close. Significantly cooler air is set to reach Ireland from Friday.
Up to 31°C in Dublin and eastern Ireland
The capital is among the hottest areas
Dublin lies at the heart of the hottest zone today.
Met Éireann forecasts temperatures in County Dublin of between 27 and 30°C, locally reaching 31°C. The day is expected to remain warm, humid and largely dry for much of the day, despite the possibility of a few isolated showers in the evening.
The Midlands and several other parts of Leinster are also expected to see particularly high temperatures.
By contrast, the west of the island will enjoy noticeably less warm weather. Along parts of the Kerry, Clare and Donegal coasts, temperatures will remain closer to 20°C, with more cloud, mist or coastal fog.
Yellow heat warning remains in force
Leinster and Tipperary affected until Friday morning
Met Éireann is maintaining a Yellow High Temperature warning for Leinster and County Tipperary.
The warning applies to maximum temperatures exceeding 27°C, combined with overnight temperatures remaining above 15°C.
The warning is due to remain in force until 6am on Friday 14 August.
Ireland’s weather service has highlighted several possible impacts, including difficulty sleeping because of overnight heat, heat stress, risks linked to increased use of beaches, lakes and rivers, and potential issues for animals.
How much longer will the heat last?
Temperatures fall from Friday
The change will be rapid.
On Friday 14 August, Ireland will return to conditions much closer to those usually associated with an Irish summer.
Maximum temperatures will generally rise no higher than 17°C in the north-west to 24 or 25°C in the south and east.
In Dublin, where the mercury could still approach 31°C today, maximum temperatures will fall to around 21 to 23°C on Friday.
In less than 24 hours, some areas could therefore lose almost 8 to 10 degrees.
What weather is expected for the 15 August weekend?
Much more pleasant temperatures for visiting Ireland
For travellers in Ireland over the 15 August weekend, the outlook is fairly favourable.
Saturday is expected to be a largely dry day, with a mix of cloud and sunny spells. A few light showers will remain possible, mainly in the north and west.
Maximum temperatures are expected to range from 16 or 17°C in the north-west to around 22°C in the south-east.
Sunday is also expected to bring long dry spells, with some sunny intervals. Temperatures will remain between 17 and 22°C.
These temperatures will therefore be much more comfortable for hiking, city visits or excursions along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Thunderstorms and showers possible before the cooler weather arrives
The heat may end on a rather unsettled note
The transition to cooler weather will not be calm everywhere.
This Thursday, showers and at times heavy rain are set to move across some areas, particularly in the north-western half of the country.
Met Éireann also says that a few thunderstorms are possible, particularly in the north.
Showers are expected to gradually move eastwards during the evening before cooler conditions arrive from the Atlantic overnight.
What does this heat mean for travellers in Ireland?
A few useful precautions when sightseeing
Temperatures above 30°C remain unusual enough in Ireland to require a few adjustments, particularly for outdoor activities.
For travellers in Dublin, Leinster or the Midlands, it is best to avoid long hikes during the hottest hours, favour visits in the morning or late afternoon, and make sure to carry enough water.
Sun protection also remains essential. The UV index is currently forecast to be moderate to high in several areas, including Dublin.
The heat is also leading to greater use of beaches, lakes and rivers. Caution is especially important around unsupervised swimming areas and on the Atlantic coast, where currents can remain strong even when temperatures are summery.
Will high temperatures return next week?
Much more changeable weather is on the way
In the longer term, no comparable new heat spell is currently forecast.
After a relatively calm weekend, Atlantic influence is expected to become more pronounced from Monday.
Rain is expected to cross the country on Monday, at times heavy, accompanied by stronger winds. Temperatures should nevertheless remain relatively mild, with maximums between 19 and 23°C.
Tuesday is expected to be cooler and windier, with a mix of sunny spells and showers and temperatures generally between 16 and 20°C.
The rest of the week is therefore shaping up to be much more typical for Ireland, with a mix of rain, showers and brighter spells.
