Heatwave conditions officially met in Northern Ireland

A heatwave has been in place in the Republic of Ireland since 9 July, and is set to last into next week, especially around the midlands and further south.

Temperatures have bee recorded climbing close to 30C in several locations during the past week.

The highest temperature on record in the Republic of Ireland is 33.3C, in June 1887.

Irish weather service, Met Éireann, is warning of temperatures above 27C potentially leading to water safety issues due to increased use of lakes, beaches, and waterways.

Potential impacts also include uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress, forest fires, and drought.

Meanwhile a hosepipe ban and water conservation order is set to come into place, external in six counties in the Republic from Thursday, lasting for six weeks.