Irish weather records could be broken as temperatures of up to 28C forecast

Ireland could have record-breaking temperatures this week as the current spell of hot weather continues.

Forecasts by Met Eireann show some places could reach 28C, with Munster and Leinster likely to be the warmest areas.

The previous hottest May day was on May 31 1997 when a temperature of 28.4C was recorded at Ardfert Liscahane in Co Kerry.

Long spells of sunshine are expected throughout the country, the national meteorological service has said, with the highest temperatures between 23C and 28C.

The warm weather is expected to continue, with temperatures of up to 28C again forecast for Tuesday and 27C on Wednesday.

In the UK, Monday is forecast to be the hottest bank holiday on record, with temperatures of 34C forecast in Greater London and south-east England.

The UK had its hottest May day with a high of 33.5C in Heathrow, west London.

Met Office observations also put parts of Northern Ireland between 24C-25C after lunchtime.

Meanwhile, the Irish Cancer Society reminded people to protect their skin from harmful ultraviolet rays – the main cause of skin cancer.

Michelle Lonergan, cancer awareness nurse at the charity, said: “Over-exposure to the sun can damage the skin at any age, and this damage builds up over time, increasing the risk of melanoma and other types of skin cancer.

“Even on cloudy or cooler days, UV rays can still penetrate the skin, making daily protection essential whenever you are outdoors.”

Ms Lonergan said simple steps can make a “huge difference in reducing” risk – including regularly reapplying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or above), and wearing lightweight long sleeves, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.

She also said it was important to protect babies and children as their skin is more sensitive to the sun.