Ireland and UK issue extensive heat warnings as temperatures near 30 °C

The UK Health Security Agency issued a three‑day yellow heat‑health alert for Essex and surrounding counties, warning that temperatures could reach 29 °C and that vulnerable people may face increased health risks.

In Ireland, Met Éireann has placed a series of Status Yellow high‑temperature warnings over ten counties, later extending them to cover additional areas. Forecasts predict daytime highs of 27‑30 °C and overnight lows above 15 °C, prompting alerts about heat stress, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, forest‑fire danger and water‑safety concerns. The warnings have been renewed several times, covering counties such as Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Galway, Mayo, Clare, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Laois and Offaly.

Health officials have urged older adults and other vulnerable groups to stay hydrated, keep cool, avoid direct sun and watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion. In response to the heatwave, retailers such as Aldi Ireland promoted “heatwave essentials” including cooling devices, sun protection and picnic supplies. Record temperatures were noted, with a 30.4 °C reading in Valentia, County Kerry, the highest since 1860.