As we wake up this Sunday, July 12, 2026, it's clear the glorious heatwave showing Ireland at its very best isn't just continuing, it's doubling down. If you thought yesterday was warm, prepare for even more sunshine and temperatures that are genuinely remarkable for our shores. The forecasts suggest we're in for another cracker of a day, with conditions set to remain hot and clear well into next week.

Let's dive into the specifics for today, because knowing what to expect means you can make the most of it.

Today: Sunday 12th July – Hot and Sunny Across the Board

Today will be exceptionally warm, even hot, across most of the country. Expect widespread sunshine from the moment you step outside. There might be a few lingering clouds in the north this morning, but they're set to clear swiftly, leaving clear blue skies for everyone to enjoy.

Temperatures are really climbing today, generally falling between 24 and 29 degrees Celsius. The warmest spots are likely to be in the west and southwest. If you're on the east coast, you might feel a slight reprieve from the intense heat. This is due to a moderate easterly wind, which will occasionally pick up to a fresh breeze near the coasts. It's enough to take the edge off, making those coastal walks perhaps a little more comfortable than inland.

Whether you're planning a trip to a beach in Clare, a hike in Kerry, or just enjoying a local park, today's Ireland weather forecast will be perfect for it. Just remember the sun cream; this kind of sunshine isn't to be underestimated.

Tonight: A Warm, Clear Night

As the sun sets, the warmth won't be disappearing anytime soon. Tonight will be dry with mostly clear skies, allowing for some spectacular stargazing if you're away from city lights. The lowest temperatures we're looking at are between 14 and 19 degrees. Again, the south and west will hold onto the heat a bit more, making for a truly mild evening. A mostly moderate easterly breeze will continue to be a feature.

This kind of night is perfect for outdoor dining or just sitting out with a cool drink, enjoying the quiet. It's a real treat when Ireland gets these extended periods of warmth.

Looking Ahead to Monday 13th July

The good news just keeps on coming. Tomorrow, Monday 13th July, will be a repeat performance: another very warm or hot and dry day, drenched in sunshine. We're talking about highest temperatures generally ranging from 23 to 28 degrees. Munster and Connacht are expected to be the warmest regions, so if you're in those parts, prepare for another scorcher.

The east of the country will once again experience slightly cooler conditions, thanks to a mostly moderate east to northeast wind. Temperatures there will be a pleasant 20 to 23 degrees. This persistent easterly flow is definitely influencing our local microclimates, making the east a shade less intense, which some might prefer.

The Week Ahead: A Prolonged Heatwave

Now, for the big picture. The Met Éireann outlook confirms what many of us have been hoping for: this prolonged very warm or hot spell is set to continue for the entire week ahead. We're looking at daytime temperatures widely reaching the mid to high 20s. What's even more impressive, and perhaps a little unusual for Ireland, is the mention of warm and possibly tropical nights. That means those evening temperatures might not drop below 20 degrees in some areas, which is quite something.

It's expected to be largely dry and sunny throughout, which is fantastic news for anyone with outdoor plans. However, there is a developing trend to keep an eye on: an increased chance of showers and thunderstorms developing later in the week.

A Day-by-Day Sneak Peek

Let's break down the next few days:

Monday Night

Expect another dry night with mostly clear skies. Lowest temperatures will be between 13 and 18 degrees, with the south remaining the warmest. Light to moderate northeasterly breezes will prevail.

Tuesday

Mostly dry with widespread sunshine. There's a slight chance of an isolated shower affecting the south later in the day, but for the most part, it's another bright one. Highest temperatures will generally be between 23 and 28 degrees, warmest in the west. The east coast will again be a little cooler due to a mostly moderate easterly breeze.

Tuesday Night

Dry for most with clear skies. However, it will become cloudier in the south overnight, with the potential for some showers to develop there. Lowest temperatures will be between 14 and 19 degrees, with the south again being the warmest. Light to moderate easterly breezes will continue.

Wednesday

Another dry and sunny day for most. But this is where those potential heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms start to come into play, most likely affecting parts of the south and west. It will remain very warm or hot, with highest temperatures generally between 23 and 28 degrees. The east coast will stay a bit cooler in a light to moderate easterly breeze.

Thursday

Continuing very warm or hot with dry and sunny conditions for most. However, Thursday brings a higher chance of heavy showers and thunderstorms developing, again most likely affecting parts of the south and west. Highest temperatures will generally be between 24 and 28 degrees in light easterly breezes, becoming gusty near any showers.

What This Means for Us

This extended period of exceptional Ireland weather is a fantastic opportunity to get out and about. Whether you're exploring the stunning coastlines, enjoying a picnic in one of our many beautiful national parks, or simply relaxing in your garden, these conditions are ideal. We're seeing temperatures that would make many Mediterranean countries envious.

For those venturing outdoors, remember to stay hydrated, seek shade during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 11 am and 3 pm), and apply plenty of high-factor sun cream. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage often shares advice on enjoying the outdoors responsibly, especially during warmer weather.

The uncertainty towards the end of the week regarding showers and thunderstorms is typical for these kinds of heatwaves. High temperatures often lead to atmospheric instability, so while the sunshine will largely continue, be prepared for some dramatic downpours if you're in the affected regions. There's also a chance that the very warm spell will simply continue uninterrupted. We'll be keeping a close eye on the updates, so check back with us for the latest information.

For now, let's embrace this incredible spell of summer weather. It's not every year we get such consistent warmth and sunshine. Enjoy your Sunday, and make the most of every ray!