From:Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

The National Severe Weather and Flood Coordination Group met today to discuss the impacts of the ongoing period of high temperatures and co-ordinate any cross-sector actions that may be required.

The prolonged spell of very warm or hot weather will continue this week. Daytime maximum temperatures will widely exceed 25 degrees, and possibly 30 degrees, in places. The UV Index is expected to be high to very high. Warm and humid nights will also continue.

A Status Yellow High Temperature warning is in place today for Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Galway, Mayo (expiring at 7am on Wednesday).A wider Status Yellow High Temperature warning will come into effect at noon on Wednesday covering most of the country – Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Offaly, Westmeath, Cavan, Donegal, Munster and Connacht. This is currently due to expire at 6am on Friday.The public should continue to check the Met Éireannwebsiteand app for the latest forecasts and weather warnings.

Potential Impacts• Water safety issues due to increased use of waterways, lakes and beaches• Uncomfortable sleeping conditions• Heat stress and dehydration, especially for the vulnerable and elderly• Potential disruption to public transport• Animal welfare issues• Potential drought concerns• Potential wildfires and forest fires

“While many people understandably welcome this period of warm weather, it is also placing additional pressure on many people, services and on our local water supplies and we have to respond to that.“I would ask that the public look out for anyone who may need assistance and take into account the advice of the HSE, Met Éireann and your local emergency services and council updates in the coming days.“In particular, please take the time to check on the older people in your life and those who may be vulnerable or unwell.“Given this country is not used to weather spells like this, we can’t take things for granted. From wearing sunscreen whenever you’re outside and staying hydrated, to being careful around the sea, our rivers and lakes, please take care.”

The Health Services Executive (HSE) have specific and comprehensive advice on staying safe in hot weather, which can be accessedhere.

Water SafetyThe Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, Waterways Ireland and the RNLI are urging the public to stay safe and remember that water safety is not just about swimming or water sports. It is relevant to everyday activities such as coastal walks, cycling beside canals, angling, or visiting parks and beaches with family.Drowning data shows that most accidental drownings (65%) follow land-based activities such as walking, angling, cycling, or simply spending time near the water. Now is the time for families and communities to have important conversations about staying safe near water. Awareness is a Lifesaver.For more water safety information, contactwww.watersafety.ie.If you’re planning an activity in or on the water, remember:

Road SafetyWith clear sunny conditions and high temperatures forecast over the next number of days, the RSA is advising drivers to:

Advice to pedestrians, people who cycle, e-scooter users and motorcyclists

Summertime is the most dangerous time of the year on our roads. In the summer, when there are no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days are brighter, we drop our guard.There can be a spike in pedestrian, people who cycle and motorcyclist casualties over the summer months as the fine weather brings more people on to the roads. Drivers need to be on the lookout for them. Slow down and expect the unexpected.Further advice is available from the Road Safety Authorityhere.

Water SupplyA number of water supply schemes across the country are experiencing water shortages and reduced pressure where there are low raw water sources or reservoir levels. This is due to a range of factors including high demand for water and prolonged periods of low rainfall levels.In unique circumstances, a water conservation order (or hosepipe ban) is introduced if absolutely necessary. A number of these orders are currently in place across the country, and details can be foundhere.The public is reminded that every individual water-saving action counts and using only what you need really helps to make a positive contribution that can benefit everyone. Customers can contact Uisce Éireann’s 24/7 helpdesk at 1800 278 278 or visitwater.ie

Fire SafetyAn orange Fire Danger Notice has been issued by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and is currently in place until midday on Friday.The High Temperatures will likely bring an increase in outdoor activities, and the public is reminded that everybody has a part to play in protecting our unique rural landscapes, communities, habitats and forest resources from the threats posed by wildfire. If you are out and about enjoying our countryside and forests this summer, please help to reduce the risks of fire by keeping the following in mind:

Further advice is available from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marinehere.

Animal WelfareThe Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is urging farmers, horse and dog owners to take necessary steps to protect their animals during this period of hot weather. The statement from Minister Heydon as well as advice in this area can be foundhere.