Scorching summer sunshine set to continue

Summer has arrived in Ireland with a vengeance as temperatures reached new highs for the year.

Top temperatures were recorded in Kilkenny yesterday, making it the hottest day so far this year at 29.2 degrees celcius. But today's weather may outdo that, with Met Eireann predicting that some areas, particualrly in the south of the country, will reach 30 degrees.

However, the Mediterranean conditions have not been experienced throughout the country; according to Met Eireann, the north and northwest of the country have seen milder temperatures and some light rain, especially in Donegal, Sligo, Mayo and other coastal areas.

There will be a break from the sweltering heat, with weather is expected to turn milder on Thursday and Friday, with Met Eireann predicting a "general slide" in temperatures over the two days, and even a few drops of rain predicted for Friday. However, Met Eireann expects the sunny south east will continue to live up to its name, experiencing the best weather in the country.

The good weather should return just in time for the weekend; although it won't hit the stifling highs we have seen in the past few days, it is expected to reach between 18 and 21 degrees celcius.

However, while the soaring temperatures have been welcomed by some, they are proving a worry for others. The Irish Cancer Society has issued a warning to people, encouraging them to take care in the sun.

The organisation recommends staying out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, when the rays are at their strongest, and to cover up with a t-shirt, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the eyes.

A high protection sunscreen, at least SPF 15, should be applied 20 minutes before going outside, and then re-applied at least every two hours, more often if swimming or perspiring. Babies under six months should be protected from the sun at all times, ideally kept in the shade as much as possible.

Sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer, and causes premature ageing.

The organisation has also urged people to watch for new lumps or growths, a sore that does not heal or scaling red areas that bleed easily, and to monitor any changes in moles.

For more information, call the Irish Cancer Society National Cancer Helpline on Freefone 1800 200 700.