Highs of 22 degrees forecast this weekend for Westmeath

It might be time, finally, to dust off the barbecue as temperatures are set to reach highs of between 21 and 22 degrees locally this weekend.

Met Éireann has stated the UV Index will be high in the coming days, with a rating of 6 - 7, and is urging people to stay safe in the sun, by wearing sunscreen, loose clothing and a hat.

Locally, Cathal Nolan of Ireland's Weather Channel, is predicting the hottest day of the weekend will be Sunday, with highs of between 21 and 22 degrees expected.

"Friday is to continue warm and sunny across the county with some cloudier spells interspersed. Highs of 19 - 20 degrees are expected," he said.

"Saturday will be warm and sunny once again, with temperatures reaching 21 degrees Celsius.

"There will be similar conditions on Sunday, with the mercury reaching between 21 - 22 degrees, and sunny spells continuing throughout the day."

The extended outlook, according to Nolan, shows that it will remain dry and sunny for the most part with temperatures reaching into the thigh teens or low twenties.