Temperatures could reach up to 27 degrees later this week

A prominent Offaly weather forecaster has said there is a chance of a heatwave later this week.

A heatwave is defined as three or more days during which the temperature reaches or exceeds 25 degrees Celsius.

Cathal Nolan, from Rhode, runs Ireland's Weather Channel.

He said in the coming week there is weather is set to warm up considerably over the next couple of days, with temperatures reaching well into the mid twenties in many areas.

The real hot weather will occur from Wednesday on.

Today, Monday, will see highs of up to 21 degrees Celsius, with highest temperatures tomorrow (Tuesday) between19-22 degrees Celsius.

Writing on his Ireland's Weather Channel Facebook page he said: “Wednesday will be the first of the hot days this week with long spells of sunshine in all areas as a strong high pressure system develops directly across Ireland. Highs during Wednesday afternoon will reach up to 25-26 degrees Celsius.

“Thursday and Friday will both be sunny days with long clear spells allowing the temperatures to really jump up. Afternoon maximum temperatures in inland parts reaching anywhere between 25-27 degrees Celsius, maybe even 28 degrees Celsius in one or two favoured locations.

Conditions look set to remain very warm or hot over the weekend, with plenty of warm sunshine once again. There is the risk of the odd thunderstorm developing due to the heat and increased instability by then. Highs again reaching between 24-27 degrees Celsius.