Cork Set for Potential 30°C Heatwave as Continental Air Mass Arrives
Cork should prepare for what could be the hottest weather in two years, with temperatures potentially reaching 30°C by next weekend as a Continental air mass moves across Ireland.
According to weather forecasters, the Azores High is building this week, bringing increasingly warm and settled conditions that will peak through the weekend of 12-13 July.
Met Éireann has confirmed that temperatures will climb steadily throughout the week, starting with highs of 19 to 24°C on Tuesday before reaching 22 to 28°C by Friday. The national forecaster notes that “very warm or hot Continental air mass looks likely to feed up across Ireland with sunny conditions occurring widely.”
Cathal Nolan from Ireland’s Weather Channel stated:
“Ireland is about to experience its hottest spell of weather so far this year with summer like conditions developing through the second half of next week. There’s growing confidence that we are about to experience our hottest spell of weather since 2022, with some areas possibly experiencing heatwave conditions.”
The ECMWF and GFS weather models have aligned in their predictions, suggesting temperatures could reach 30°C by next weekend, with some areas potentially recording even higher values. Central, northern and western areas are expected to see the highest temperatures, which could be 8°C above the July average.
Nick Critch from Weather Alerts Ireland confirmed:
“Temperatures are on the rise this week as hot air pushes up from the south. Temperatures will rise as high as 28°C or even a bit hotter possible over the weekend!”
The warm spell will develop gradually through the week. Tuesday will start rather cloudy with some patchy drizzle, particularly affecting western parts of Munster, before clearing in the afternoon. Wednesday will see isolated light showers across western areas, but eastern and southeastern regions, including parts of Cork, should enjoy warm sunshine.
From Thursday onwards, the heat will build significantly with widespread sunny conditions and light winds. Friday looks set to bring the first taste of truly hot weather, with temperatures between 22 to 28°C under sunny skies.
While the weekend forecast carries some uncertainty, all indicators point to potentially widespread hot and sunny weather continuing. Farmers across Cork are being advised to prepare for ideal haymaking conditions, with the dry and warm weather providing perfect timing for the harvest.
Cork residents should start preparing for the heat by ensuring adequate hydration, checking on vulnerable neighbours, and taking appropriate sun protection measures. With light winds expected, the heat could feel particularly intense, especially in urban areas.
Met Éireann has indicated that pollen levels will be moderate on Tuesday and Wednesday, while the UV index will range from moderate to high throughout the period.