Sunshine forecast for weekend – but good news ends there

This August Bank Holiday weekend is likely to offer a calm before the storm, as rain and strong winds are expected after Monday.

Those making plans for the long weekend will be glad to know that dry, sunny spells are forecast for most of the country with only the occasional scattered shower.

Beginning on Friday, most areas will be completely dry with any isolated showers confined to the south-east, along the coast. Temperatures are set to reach 20 degrees with warmest conditions expected for the north-west of the country.

It will be cool for early August, but highest temperatures are still likely to reach 19 degrees on Saturday with some light breezes, growing colder but remaining dry into the night.

Similarly dry and sunny conditions with scattered showers are predicted for Sunday. Low winds mean it should be pleasant in the sunshine with highest temperatures of 15 to 18 degrees.

As it stands, there are clear skies for those planning outdoor activities for the Bank Holiday Monday, which will be mainly dry and bright with little wind.

However, forecasters warn of unsettled weather for the rest of the week, with rain and strengthening winds anticipated.

Good news for fed-up hay fever sufferers as the majority of grasses and trees have now finished producing pollen. Pollen from weeds such as nettles is to be expected, but only affects about 20 per cent of people and is mainly an issue in lowland areas.

Met Éireann has warned of fungal spores of which there is now a high to very high risk. These tiny particles are most common during recent warm, humid nights and affect around 10 per cent of people with allergies.

Records continued to be broken last month as June became the 14th consecutive month of record heat across the globe. Global June temperatures remained above the 20th Century average of 15.5 degrees making it the hottest June on record since 1880.

Those planning trips in Dublin city centre are reminded that the north and south quays will be closed in both directions at O’Connell Bridge for Cross City Luas construction work. Major traffic diversions will be in place from Friday at 8pm to Tuesday at 6am.

Free parking is to be made available at Luas and Irish Rail park and ride zones for Saturday, Sunday and Monday, and additional Luas and dart services will operate on the Sunday and Monday.