Ireland is experiencing a particularly notable spell of hot weather this Wednesday 12 August 2026. While the country is usually associated with relatively mild summer temperatures, the mercury could reach 30°C in some eastern areas, according to the latest forecasts from Met Éireann.
This comes on the very day of the solar eclipse visible from Ireland, as many residents and travellers hope for sufficiently clear skies in the early evening.
Up to 30°C in eastern Ireland
Dublin and Leinster among the warmest areas
According to Met Éireann, maximum temperatures are generally expected to reach 22 to 27°C, rising locally to between 25 and 30°C in Leinster and eastern Munster.
The east and south-east of the country are therefore expected to see the warmest conditions. By contrast, temperatures will be more moderate near some western and south-western coasts.
The contrast could be particularly noticeable between the Atlantic seaboard, which is more exposed to cloud cover, and the interior and east of the island.
Weather closely watched because of the solar eclipse
Clear spells could make all the difference this evening
This warm day is attracting even more attention as a major solar eclipse is due to take place in the early evening. In Ireland, the Moon will cover around 94 to 98% of the solar disc, depending on the region.
Conditions are expected to become progressively brighter during the afternoon in several areas. The best clear spells are expected particularly in the east and south-east, while more cloud may linger near the western and south-western coasts.
For those wishing to observe the eclipse, local cloud cover will therefore remain the main factor to watch until the last moment.
It is essential to use glasses specifically designed for observing eclipses and never to look directly at the Sun, even when it is almost completely obscured.
The heat is expected to continue on Thursday
Up to 29°C, but with a risk of showers and thunderstorms
The spell is not expected to end immediately. For Thursday 13 August, Met Éireann is still forecasting a warm day, with maximum temperatures of approximately 20 to 29°C.
However, the weather will become more unsettled in places. Potentially heavy showers may develop, along with a risk of isolated thunderstorms, particularly in some northern and western areas.
Travellers in Ireland this week will therefore have to contend with weather that is fairly unusual for the country: notably warm summer conditions, sunny spells, but also the possibility of localised thundery showers.
What should you plan for if you are currently travelling in Ireland?
A few simple precautions for the warmest days
Although these temperatures remain moderate compared with the heat episodes experienced in southern Europe, they are high for Ireland. They may come as a surprise, particularly when exploring Dublin, other towns and cities, or exposed tourist sites on foot.
It is advisable to bring enough water, sun protection and light clothing, while keeping a waterproof jacket close at hand: Irish weather can still change quickly.
As forecasts may vary locally, it is best to check the latest information from Met Éireann before a hike, excursion or long day of sightseeing.
