It's a heatwave (as if we didn't already know)

Ireland sizzles in record August highs...but out with all set to fizzle rain on its way. Met warn extremes may be new normal

- SHANE POWER

A HEATWAVE was officially declared here yesterday after temperatures exceeded 25C for the fifth day in a row.

But forecasters warned we should make the most of the good weather as a Status Yellow thunderstorm warning was issued from today on.

A new August record was set on Friday with 31.7C at Oak Park in Carlow and yesterday a sizzling 28.8C was recorded at Moore Park in Cork.

However, national forecaster Met Eireann is warning of cloud cover with possible thundery showers and hail breaking the hot spell in some areas.

The good weather is set to turn to heavy downpours by tomorrow as the country is set to cool down rapidly to temperatures in the high teens or low 20s.

Beachgoers were urged to be extra cautious as they flocked to the shore to make the most of the sunshine this weekend.

Fingal County Council issued a warning as crowds made their way to the coast to bask in the hot weather. Sun worshippers were also warned to take litter home with them after shocking images showed the Forty Foot in Dublin strewn with rubbish.

A council spokesman said: "The sun is giving us a final push to start the weekend, so it will be busy on the coast.

"Please respect our beaches. Please do not leave litter on beaches - bring a bag to take your litter home or use the bins provided.