The record temperature for April has been broken, according to provisional data from Met Éireann.
A temperature of 25.9C was reached in Athenry, Co Galway today.
The previous record was 25.8C in Glenties, Co Donegal, in April 1984.
Highest temperature records for April were broken at 17 weather stations across Ireland, the figures show.
Met Éireann added that it was the second "earliest climatological summer day".
This is because the "daily maximum shaded air temperature exceeded 25C".
The forecaster said high pressure will continue to dominate for the coming days, including the bank holiday weekend, bringing mostly dry and settled conditions, although it will be cooler.
Temperatures of between 18C and 24C are expected in Leinster and Munster tomorrow, reaching 12-17C elsewhere.
There'll be a gradual cool down for the end of the week
— Met Éireann (@MetEireann) April 30, 2025
On Thursday, Ulster & Connacht will be cooler & cloudier with a little rain🌧️
Still sunny and warm in Leinster & Munster, though some heavy showers possible🌦️
Cooler nationwide by Friday but with plenty of dry weather pic.twitter.com/Aa85vlsAF0
The HSE urged people to stay "sun smart" during the warm weather.
The advice is to wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible, apply lots of broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and spend time in the shade, even when it is cloudy.
Met Éireann's Deputy Head of Forecasting Liz Coleman said: "The higher the UV index, the higher the risk of skin and eye damage.
"When the UV index is three or above, you need to protect your skin and eyes.
"Also don’t assume that just because there is cloud that the sun’s rays are not damaging. Be prepared and plan ahead by checking the UV forecast on Met Éireann’s website."
We need your consent to load this rte-player contentWe use rte-player to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content.Manage Preferences
High risk of fires
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine have issued an Orange forest fire danger warning.
It will remain in place until 6 May.
There were a number of gorse fires around the country during the last warm spell.
Visitors to public recreational areas should not light open fires or barbecues in high-risk areas.
Exercise caution around water
Water Safety Ireland urged people to exercise caution around water.
Lifeguards will not be deployed at bathing locations around the country until mid-June.
The "water temperature is still cold" and "warm air doesn't mean warm water," said Ruby Hearst of Water Safety Ireland.
"If you decide to go for a swim, stay within your depth and don’t swim for too long. It’s important to look out for people swimming around you, but the first rule is to ensure your own safety at all times," she added.
Lifeguards, employed by local authorities, are usually on duty during the bathing season, which typically runs from mid-June to September.
