SUNLOVERS have received several heatwave warnings as Met Eireann flagged dangers with temperatures soaring close to record highs.
A hot 28C is forecast for Donegal today (Wednesday) and 26C tomorrow.
It is slightly below Donegal’s record high temperature of 29.6C that was set at Finner, near Ballyshannon, on July 12, last year.
Thermometer in very hot day as Met Eireann warned of high temperatures in Donegal.
The national weather service reminds the public that these temperatures are for “in the shade” – with real-feel temperatures in direct sunlight up to 15C warmer.
That means today’s forecasted high of 28C could feel like 43C.
Measuring temperatures in shade is the standard meteorological practice worldwide to record the actual temperature of the air.
Thermometers in direct sunshine measure the combined heat of the air and the sun, which can add 10C to 15C to official shaded readings.
Met Eireann said: “Air temperature measured in direct sunshine, or in a porch, could be up to 10C or 15C higher in warm and sunny weather.
“This is why temperature measurements are made in [shade].”
Met Eireann’s Status Yellow warning for Donegal comes into effect at midday today (Wednesday) and does not expire until 6am on Friday.
A spokesperson warned: “Maximum temperatures could be in excess of 27C combined with overnight minimum temperatures in excess of 15C.
“Potential impacts include water safety issues due to increased use of lakes, beaches and waterways, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, heat stress, forest fires, and drought.”
Rathmullan beach.
There have also been several warnings as daytrippers make a splash and soak up the sun amid the perfect ice cream conditions.
Advice for safety in the water, vigilance against fire hazards, skin health protection, and pet welfare and vulnerable elderly has also been issued.
GARDAI
Donegal gardai warned motorists not to block lifesaving access routes at beaches for emergency services.
A Garda spokesperson said: “Are you out and about enjoying the hot spell of weather? Have you parked in a responsible manner?
“Are you potentially blocking access for emergency vehicles? If the answer is yes, then please move your vehicle to another location.
“By blocking access for any of the emergency services you could be putting lives at risk. In an emergency, every second counts.
“Obstruction is an offence under road traffic legislation. Your vehicle is liable to be seized and would then be subject to an impound fee. Please think before you park.”
The huge influx of visitors to beaches across the county has resulted in gardai banning cars at Downings Beach this weekend.
Gardai have issued warnings to motorists.
The Garda spokesperson said: “Vehicular access to Downings Beach and carpark will not be permitted due to the large volume of traffic in the area.”
He also issued a warning about pet safety and said: “Keep your dog safe in hot weather. Walk early morning or late evening only.
“Provide plenty of fresh water and shade. Never leave a dog in a car, even for a few minutes.
“Heat stroke in dogs is essentially a high temperature not caused by a fever. It occurs when dogs are no longer able to self-regulate and keep their temperature at a comfortable level.
“Worryingly, heat stroke in dogs can be fatal in as little as 15 minutes. Don’t take the risk and make sure your pet isn’t overheating in the sun.
“If you think your dog has heat stroke, contact your vet immediately or, if out-of-hours, find your nearest emergency vet.”
COAST GUARD
The Irish Coast Guard has urged water safety amid a surge in emergency callouts with 100 appeals within 48 hours last weekend due to people getting into difficulty.
A spokesperson said: “There’s a lot more people along the shoreline and around coasts swimming or walking so we are asking people to be mindful of the weather conditions, the state of the sea, currents and tides.”
The public is advised to avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of fluids, apply factor 30+ or 50+ sunscreen, and stay in the shade.
UISCE EIREANN
Uisce Eireann has issued a garden hosepipe ban in Donegal and urged households to take measures like showers instead of baths and turn off the tap when brushing teeth.
The county is one of 13 areas nationwide with night-time water supply restrictions.
National utility Uisce Eireann also warned people not to swim in reservoirs as they are “far more dangerous than they appear.”
Temperatures are to cool over the weekend with temperatures in Letterkenny, for example, to be 18C on Friday, 17C on Saturday and Sunday, and 16C on Monday, according to Met Eireann.
The emergency services advise the public to call 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard if someone is in difficulty in or near water.