Irish Summer Heats Up: What's Behind the Warm Spell?
Ireland is experiencing a period of notably warm weather for late June and early July, with temperatures in some areas, particularly the east, potentially reaching up to 26°C. While this isn't a full-blown heatwave across the entire island by Met Éireann's definition (5 consecutive days over 25°C), it's certainly a departure from the typical Irish summer, leaving many wondering what's causing the mercury to rise. According to Met Éireann and other meteorological experts, the current warmer conditions are largely influenced by a "heat dome" affecting much of Europe. This phenomenon involves a high-pressure system that traps hot air beneath it, leading to prolonged periods of warm, settled weather. While countries like Spain, Portugal, and France are currently enduring a severe heat blast with temperatures well over 40°C, Ireland is catching the edge of this system. Another significant contributing factor is the elevated sea surface temperatures in r...