The previous hottest May day was on May 31, 1997 when a temperature of 28.4C was recorded at Ardfert Liscahane in Co Kerry

Bairbre Holmes and Cillian Sherlock, PA

20:09, 25 May 2026

Gabriel Dzioba, Julian Vith, Thaisa and Juan from Brazil/Dublin enjoying the hot weather on Burrow Beach, Sutton. Photo SAM BOAL/Collins Photos

A record May temperature of 28.8C has been recorded at two weather stations, according to Met Eireann data.

Killarney and Clonmel automatic climate stations recorded 28.8C at about 3pm on Monday.

The previous hottest May day was on May 31, 1997 when a temperature of 28.4C was recorded at Ardfert Liscahane in Co Kerry.

Long spells of sunshine are expected throughout the country, the national meteorological service has said, with the highest temperatures largely between 23C and 28C.

The warm weather is expected to continue, with temperatures of up to 28C again forecast for Tuesday and 27C on Wednesday.

Fernanda Gonzalez from Dublin enjoying the hot weather on Burrow Beach, Sutton. Photo SAM BOAL/Collins Photos

The UK had its hottest May day with a high of 33.5C in Heathrow, west London.

Met Office observations also put parts of Northern Ireland between 24C and 25C after lunchtime.

Meanwhile, the Irish Cancer Society reminded people to protect their skin from harmful ultraviolet rays – the main cause of skin cancer.

George Usman from Dublin tucks into a giant watermelon whilst enjoying the hot weather on Burrow Beach, Sutton. Photo SAM BOAL/Collins Photos

Michelle Lonergan, cancer awareness nurse at the charity, said: “Over-exposure to the sun can damage the skin at any age, and this damage builds up over time, increasing the risk of melanoma and other types of skin cancer.

“Even on cloudy or cooler days, UV rays can still penetrate the skin, making daily protection essential whenever you are outdoors.”

Ms Lonergan said simple steps can make a “huge difference in reducing” risk – including regularly reapplying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or above), and wearing lightweight long sleeves, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.

She also said it was important to protect babies and children as their skin is more sensitive to the sun.

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.