THE warmest ever May teased a glorious bank holiday weekend but Donegal thunderstorms are more likely than new temperature records, warn Met Eireann.
In fact, the national weather service’s latest forecast is for a sharp drop in temperatures from tomorrow (Friday) and a sudden return of heavy rain.
Meteorologists had forecasted highs for the county of 24C yesterday (Wednesday) and 23C today – but temperatures for the weekend are as low as 15C.
Met Eireann’s Gerry Murphy said of the warm spell’s end: “It will be back to a typical mix of Irish weather and not as warm; more typical of May.”
However, Donegal’s beaches and seaside areas are expected to be busier than usual.
Bundoran RNLI crews, in coordination with Malin Head Coast Guard, were tasked to five incidents in just 72 hours during the recent spell of warm weather.
They have now urged the public to take extra care around the water this weekend when thousands of people will be on the move across the county over the bank holiday weekend.
Major events like the Pride Festival are being held in Letterkenny.
The Swilly (Rathmullan to Buncrana) and Foyle (Greencastle to Magilligan) ferry services resume from tomorrow (Friday).
Gardai are urging people to park responsibly as large crowds gather in popular locations and not to block emergency vehicles’ access routes in seaside areas like Downings and Bundoran.
A Garda spokesperson said: “By blocking access, you could be putting lives at risk. In an emergency, every second counts.”
Obstruction is an offence under road traffic legislation and vehicles causing blockages may be seized and impounded.
Families leaving Donegal for Dublin Airport from today (Thursday) were warned that the country’s largest airport is expecting that Sunday could be the “busiest ever day” with 503,000 people due over the bank holiday weekend.
Bank Holiday Monday is showing rain showers in areas like Letterkenny while severe rain is forecast for the west of the county, revealed Met Eireann weather models.
A forecaster said: “Tonight will see a good deal of cloud in the north and west with patchy light rain and drizzle.
“Temperatures will not fall below 9C to 14C. Friday is to be largely dry before turning cooler and more unsettled for the long weekend.
“Cloud will build from the west later in the night with outbreaks of rain.
“Saturday has a largely dry start with sunny spells, but rain will spread through the morning and afternoon, turning heavy at times, especially in the north later with the chance of isolated thunderstorms.
“Highest temperatures will range from 15C to 22C. Sunday is a mix of cloud, sunny spells and scattered showers with highest temperatures of 15C to 19C.
“The Bank Holiday is forecast to have a cloudy start with showery outbreaks of rain, turning heavy at times.
“Sunny spells and scattered showers will follow with highest temperatures of 16C to 21C.
“Further unsettled with spells of rain and showers will follow with temperatures falling to the mid-teens.”
Met Eireann forecast Donegal Town for Monday June 01, 2026.
A warm weather warning for some counties expired yesterday (Wednesday) but water and road safety agencies and others, including An Garda Siochana, have issued health warnings to the public.
Warm temperatures and bank holiday freedom risks water safety issues due to increased use of lakes and beaches, outdoor fires are an increased threat, uncomfortable sleeping conditions for children due to heat stress will remain this weekend.
Water Safety Ireland warned “enjoy the water, but respect the risk” and a spokesperson said: “Remember warm weather does not mean warm water.
“Safety signs are there for a reason. Always check them and only swim in designated safe areas. A bright swimming cap helps lifeguards and others spot you quickly in open water.
“Stay safe, look after one another, and enjoy the sunshine.”
RNLI Water Safety lead Linda-Gene Byrne said cold-water shock occurs when the water temperature is below 15C.
The Department of Agriculture issued an Orange level advisory for outdoor fires due to ground being drier from the recent warm sunshine.
The Health Service Executive has warned that older people, young children and more vulnerable groups are at risk during warm weather spikes.
People are advised to apply suncream to protect against skinburn, while pet owners are reminded that cats and dogs are susceptible to dehydration and heatstroke.
They should not be exposed to heat for long periods of time and should not be left in cars.
Meanwhile, the record-breaking heat is causing a surge in pest activity with experts warning of an increase in ants, wasps, and flies.
They say incidence of biting insects are set to rise sharply as the warmer weather drives a seasonal swell.
Pest control provider Rentokil Ireland warned of a 556% increase in activity for common pests during the warmer months.