Met Eireann has officially declared a heatwave this week as Ireland basks in unseasonably hot temperatures. 

Forecasters say there’s no end in sight to the hot conditions as high pressure remains over the country for the foreseeable future.

With highs of 27 degrees Celsius expected in places from Monday to Friday, Met Eireann have issued a Status Yellow warning for all counties.

People are being urged to stay safe in the sunshine and use suncream against the high UV levels. Extra care is advised around water during the sunny spells too. The public is being advised to swim only at Designated Bathing Areas where lifeguards are on duty, supervise children closely and always swim within your depth.

Today’s forecast is for a very warm and sunny day in most areas. “High cloud will make the sunshine a bit hazy at times but all places will stay dry. Highest temperatures of 24 to 27°C, a little cooler on coasts due to onshore breezes,” said Met Eireann.

Maximum temperatures are expected to hit 30C by Wednesday and Thursday, with close and humid nights of temperatures in the low to mid-teens.

It’s not great news for everyone though, as hayfever and asthma sufferers are in for a miserable week.

Pollen Counts are forecast at ‘Very High’ levels for the next three days and beyond. Sarah O’Connor, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, said Ireland is facing unusual pollen counts as a result of our prolonged cold winter and extended sunny and hot start to the summer.

Ms O’Connor said: “We are looking at a perfect storm this week – grass pollen levels generally reach their peak at the end of June and the coming week’s weather is only increasing that level.

“People really need to take care and manage their hayfever symptoms and for those who also have asthma, they really need to manage their health.”

For asthmatics, hayfever can cause their asthma symptoms to flare up and may cause an asthma attack. People are advised to know the symptoms of an attack and know the 5 Step Rule to save a life – go to asthma.ie for more information on how to prevent and manage asthma attacks.