Cork Temperatures to Climb as UV Levels Rise: Time to Be SunSmart

Temperatures across Cork are set to climb through the weekend and into next week, with Met Éireann forecasting warm, dry weather, long spells of sunshine, and rising UV levels. With the first real burst of summer warmth on the way, the HSE's SunSmart message is once again worth a refresher before heading out to enjoy it.

Today, Saturday 23 May 2026, will be dry with hazy spells of sunshine for most, although cloud and mist will linger in coastal parts of the south and southwest this afternoon. Highest temperatures of 17 to 20 degrees are expected, lower in coastal areas, in light or moderate south to southwesterly winds.

Tomorrow looks notably warmer. Met Éireann says mist and fog will clear in the morning, with Sunday set to be warm and dry, long spells of sunshine developing, and highest temperatures of 19 to 23 degrees in light southerly winds.

The settled spell continues into next week. Monday is forecast to bring highs of 18 to 25 degrees, with Tuesday reaching 16 to 24 degrees. Current indications suggest Wednesday will continue mainly dry with widespread spells of sunshine in a moderate east to southeast wind, although a few showers cannot be ruled out, with highs again of 18 to 25 degrees.

Crucially for skin health, Met Éireann's Solar UV Index is rated moderate to high today and high on Sunday. The pollen forecast is low today and moderate tomorrow, which is worth noting for hay fever sufferers planning time outdoors.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland, with more than 11,000 cases diagnosed every year, yet almost all cases are preventable. The HSE's National Cancer Control Programme and Healthy Ireland encourage everyone to follow the SunSmart 5 S's whenever UV levels are elevated, including on bright but cloudy days.

Slip on clothing that covers your skin, such as long sleeves or collared T-shirts. Slop on sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 for adults and 50 for children, with high UVA protection and water resistance, and reapply regularly. Slap on a wide-brimmed hat. Seek shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm when UV rays are at their strongest, and keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight. Slide on sunglasses with UV protection.

Alongside the 5 S's, the HSE reminds the public not to deliberately try to get a suntan, to avoid sunburn, and never to use a sunbed. Sunscreen alone is not a complete shield and works best alongside shade, clothing, and hats.

With beaches, parks, and GAA pitches across the county likely to be busy over the coming days, a few simple habits can make a real difference. Sunscreen in the bag, water bottle topped up, and a hat on the smaller ones before they head out the door is a small effort for a long summer of healthier skin.

For more information, visit the HSE SunSmart hub and check Met Éireann's UV Index before heading out.