Ireland could be set for a major burst of summer heat next week, with weather experts predicting temperatures could soar into the high 20s as a ‘Spanish plume’ moves across the country.

Forecasters say the warm air system, which pushes hot conditions northwards from Spain and mainland Europe, is becoming increasingly likely over the coming days, although there is also a risk of heavy thunderstorms developing later next week.

Kenneth from the Donegal Weather Channel said weather models are now showing signs of ‘very warm weather for May’ arriving across Ireland from this weekend onwards.

People enjoying the sunshine in Merrion Square in Dublin. Pic: Tom Honan

‘Saturday and Sunday will bring temperatures in the high teens to low 20s,’ he said in a post on X.

‘From Monday to Thursday, both the ECMWF and GFS models indicate very warm weather for May, with temperatures reaching the mid to high 20s, especially from Tuesday to Thursday when the warmest part of the Spanish plume is predicted to settle over Ireland.’

He added that while the conditions could bring sunshine and unusually warm temperatures for the time of year, they may also trigger severe thunderstorms.

Met Eireann
Pic: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

‘With these very warm conditions, there’s a risk of severe thunderstorms developing,’ he warned.

‘The ECMWF model currently shows a lot of energy across Ireland next Wednesday and Thursday, raising the potential for severe thunderstorms.’

The forecast comes after a mixed and unsettled start to the week, with Met Éireann warning of heavy showers, thunderstorms and even isolated hail on Tuesday.

Thunderstorm Met Eireann
Pic: Getty

The national forecaster said Tuesday would bring ‘widespread showers or more persistent spells of rain’, with highest temperatures ranging from 12 to 17 degrees.

Conditions are expected to remain changeable through the rest of the working week, with cloudy skies and outbreaks of rain at times, particularly in western counties.

However, Met Éireann says temperatures will gradually begin to climb before high pressure takes over next weekend.

Saturday is expected to turn drier with sunny spells developing and temperatures reaching up to 20 degrees.

Sunday is forecast to be warmer again, with highs of between 19 and 23 degrees in many areas, though coastal counties may remain slightly cooler.

Forecasters say the warmest conditions are currently expected between Tuesday and Thursday next week if the Spanish plume fully develops over Ireland.