Mullingar hits 30°C in hottest day of the year so far
Westmeath basked in sweltering sunshine this past weekend as temperatures soared to a high of 30°C on Saturday, making it the hottest day of the year so far, according to Met Éireann.
The weather station in Mullingar was among several stations across Ireland to break the 30-degree mark, with Mount Dillon in Roscommon recording the highest temperature of the day at 31.1°C. Oak Park in Carlow and Shannon Airport also reached the 30°C threshold, as a rare July heatwave gripped the country.
It was the first time in three years that temperatures climbed into the 30s, which was last seen locally on July 18th, 2022.
A status yellow high temperature warning was issued nationwide, with Met Éireann warning of potential heat stress, risk of forest fires, and disruptions to sleep. UV levels were also described as "very high", prompting public health officials to urge sun protection and hydration throughout the day.
The hot conditions saw thousands flock to lakes and rivers in search of relief, while the local Mullingar Show enjoyed a bumper turnout, with crowds making the most of the sunshine.
However, the heatwave proved short-lived, as thunderstorms swept across the west and midlands on Sunday evening, bringing heavy rain that has dampened spirits in the days since. Met Éireann is forecasting a return to more unsettled conditions this week, with temperatures easing back to the high teens and low twenties.