Ireland faces a spell of hot weather that could push temperatures toward a record, with highs up to 28°C in parts of the country.

London and southeast England were expected to hit around 34°C on what was described as the hottest bank holiday May day on record, driven by the unusual heat.

Officials warn that over-exposure to UV can raise melanoma and other skin cancers, even on cooler or cloudy days, prompting strong sunscreen and protective measures.

The prior May heat record stood at 28.4°C, established on May 31, 1997, at Ardfert Liscahane in County Kerry.

Protective measures include reapplying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, wearing lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, and safeguarding babies and children due to sensitive skin.

There could be sea fog along western and northern coasts, but otherwise mist and fog should clear in the morning, with light to variable breezes expected.

In the UK, Monday brought its hottest May day on record at Heathrow with 33.5°C, and parts of Northern Ireland reached 24–25°C after lunchtime.

Ireland recorded a new May high temperature of 28.8°C at two automatic weather stations in Killarney and Clonmel, exceeding the previous May record of 28.4°C set in 1997 at Ardfert Liscahane, Co Kerry.

This week’s temperatures are approaching the national May record, with the previous 28.4°C May-day benchmark dating back to 1997.

The Irish Cancer Society is urging sun protection due to UV risks, recommending regular sunscreen (SPF 30+), protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats, with extra care for babies and children.

Met Éireann forecasts continue warm weather with daily highs typically between 22°C and 28°C, peaking around 28°C on Tuesday and about 27°C on Wednesday, with extended sunshine nationwide.

Britain’s hottest May day on record was recorded at 33.5°C in Heathrow, with other regions in the UK seeing 24–25°C in the afternoon.