IRELAND could enjoy another TEN days of fine weather with temperatures set to rocket to 21C – but the wildfire risk has hit orange level.
Parts of Ireland will be hotter than Madrid on Friday when the mercury rockets to 21C, with western areas set to see the best of the heat right through to next Sunday.
Ireland looks set to bask in another ten days of balmy temperatures[/caption]
Swimmers at the Forty Foot enjoy the fine weather[/caption]
But Government chiefs have warned that as temperatures rise to 21C this week, high fire risks are a high possibility across the country.
Met Eireann experts confirmed the best heat of the week will be felt on Friday, when parts of Ireland will be hotter than European sun spots, after some light showers on Thursday evening.
Barcelona is to only see highs of 19C while Madrid will hit 18C and other European capitals will also be cooler than Ireland this weekend, with Rome and Lisbon at 19C.
Weather bosses said: “Looking further ahead to the weekend, temperatures falling back a little with some cold and clear nights.
“However, it will be dry and sunny, very pleasant by day and no more than moderate easterly winds.”
And the mini-heatwave should persist right through next week, with “above average daytime temperatures, especially further west”.
Met Eireann’s longer-range forecast predicts for next Monday through to Sunday: “High pressure looks set to continue to dominate the weather over Ireland for week one, the second week of April, bringing largely dry and settled conditions.
“It’s expected to be milder than the climatological normal, with the highest temperatures forecast in western areas.”
And Carlow Weather’s Alan O’Reilly said: “The good news is after some cloud and showers tonight there will be plenty more sunshine for the weekend and early days of next week.”
The good weather looks set to break from around Monday April 14, with Met Eireann’s long-range forecast predicting: “The weather is likely to start to become a little more changeable and unsettled, with low pressure to the southeast starting to influence conditions.
“It’ll be a little wetter than normal in the east, but it’ll continue drier than normal further west. Temperatures will drop and will be closer to average.”
The high-pressure coming from the east is predicted to dominate this weekend’s weather, with southerly winds allowing the heat to travel.
And due to the abnormally high temperatures for the time of year, areas where “hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels exist” remain a threat for wildfires.
INFERNO FEAR
A Government statement said: “Strongly elevated fire risks are expected in areas with fire-prone upland vegetation types, and fire
behaviour and spread rates are likely to be strongly influenced by lower humidity levels associated with easterly winds and elevated windspeeds, which may exceed 20kph at times.
“Recent fire activity appears to be focused on areas associated with active turf cutting and illegal waste dumping, and additional vigilance is warranted in these areas.
“Members of the public and visitors to recreational areas should be vigilant and report all suspicious activity to An Garda Siochana. All rural users should cooperate with all requests regarding fire safety, obey all relevant bye-laws and be considerate in parking vehicles so as not to impede access by emergency vehicles.”
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has issued advice to forest owners and managers to prevent or maintain any area prone to a wildfire.
They urge that fire lines, fire plans and fire suppression equipment should be reviewed and at the ready in case of an emergency situation.
Forest owners, farmers, rural dwellers and other countryside users are being asked to remain vigilant when it comes to fire activities.
Any suspicious or illegal activity should be reported immediately.
The public are being reminded that it is an offence to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing on any land not
then cultivated between March 1 and August 31.
All activity of this nature should be reported to the Gardai.
Any landowners found to be burning illegally may face fines, imprisonment or penalties.
BEACH ALERT
A separate warning has been issued as swimmers expecting the water to be warmer are in for a major shock.
Forecasters revealed Ireland will continue to enjoy spring sunshine with balmy summer temps today, and glorious weather across the country to continue into next week.
But an urgent alert was issued to those flocking to the coast for a dip.
Water Safety chiefs told how despite the heatwave, our waterways are still chilly enough to put a person into cold water shock.
Keira Burke, of Water Safety Ireland, told the Irish Sun: “With sunny weather continuing, Water Safety Ireland urges everyone to enjoy Ireland’s beautiful waterways while keeping personal safety a top priority as they return to the water this year.
“Open water swimming offers numerous benefits, but it’s important to be aware of hazards like sudden depth changes, waves, rips, currents, and cold temperatures.
“For those new to or returning to outdoor swimming, remember that while the air may be warm, the water remains cold at this time of year.
“Water temperatures below 15C can lead to cold water shock, which can significantly impact the ability to swim and stay afloat. Cold water shock can present as deep gasping, rapid breathing, an increased heart rate, and dizziness.”
DIP TIPS
Water Safety Ireland issued a wave of tips in a bid to keep swimmers safe.
Keira said: “We have some tips to keep in mind if heading out for a swim this weekend.
“Prepare before heading out by packing suitable clothing and safety gear, like a buoyancy aid and a brightly coloured swim cap for visibility. Go with a buddy – never swim alone.
“When entering the water, take the time to acclimatize by easing in slowly.
“Start by splashing your face, chest, arms, and neck, then focus on calming your breathing before fully submerging. Do not try to swim until you can fully control your breathing.
“Know your limits and always swim within your depth.
“If you experience the symptoms of cold-water shock, try to stay as calm as possible.
“Resist the urge to swim and instead float on your back. Keep your head above water, focus on breathing and signal for help.
“After leaving the water, your core temperature may continue to drop, so remove your gear quickly, layer up with warm, dry clothing, and have a hot drink on hand to help warm you up.
“For parents and those supervising children, keep in mind that children cool much faster than adults, so extra caution is needed.
“Above all, we encourage everyone to head out and make the most of the weather and our waterways. Stay safe, be prepared, and enjoy yourself.”
Swimmers are urged to be safe when taking to the water[/caption]
