Ireland Set for Hottest Day of Year as Temperatures Soar to 30°C

Friday is forecast to be the hottest day of 2025 so far, with temperatures potentially reaching 30°C in parts of Ireland, though us here in Cork can expect very warm but slightly more moderate conditions due to the county's coastal location.

Multiple weather services are predicting exceptional heat across the country tomorrow, with the highest temperatures expected in Ulster, the Midlands, and the Midwest. Cork and the southwest coast will still experience significantly warm weather, but benefit from maritime influences that typically keep temperatures a few degrees cooler than inland areas.

Cathal Nolan, Ireland's Weather Channel:

"Tomorrow, Friday, will be the hottest day of the year to date with values in some cases reaching up to 29 degrees Celsius, with a small chance that values may even touch the magic 30 degrees Celsius mark on the north side of high ground in Connacht or Ulster. Highest temperatures generally across Ulster, the Midlands and the Midwest."

The forecast represents a significant temperature spike from typical late June conditions. Today's temperatures are already reaching 25-26°C in parts of the country, setting the stage for tomorrow's record-breaking heat in central and northern regions.

Nick Critch, Weather Alerts Ireland:

"The high resolution HARMONIE model which is often used by Met Éireann is forecasting temperatures to reach 30°C in North Ulster tomorrow! Many places away from the west and south west coasts will be very warm with temperatures up to 27 or 28°C."

Met Éireann forecasts that Cork will see temperatures between 21-27°C on Friday, with the forecaster noting conditions will be "very warm or hot" with "spells of high summer sunshine" and humid conditions. The national weather service has also warned that both pollen levels and the UV index will be high to very high on Friday.

Cork residents planning outdoor activities are advised to take appropriate sun safety precautions, including staying hydrated, seeking shade during peak hours, and applying sun protection. While temperatures won't reach the extreme levels expected further north, Friday's heat combined with high humidity will still make conditions feel particularly warm.

The hot spell is expected to be short-lived, with thundery showers possible from Friday evening onwards. Saturday will see temperatures drop to a more typical 19-25°C range across the country, with an increased likelihood of heavy showers and thunderstorms developing through the afternoon.

Sunday will bring fresher conditions with temperatures returning to seasonal norms of 15-20°C, along with scattered showers and westerly winds. Next week is expected to see more typical Irish summer weather, with sunshine and showers alternating and temperatures around average for late June.