Deirdre O Meara 
Dublin is in for a treat today as Met Eireann has forecasted a stunning day with gorgeous sunny spells and warm temperatures due to a high pressure system. The national forecaster predicts that the mercury will rise to as high as 19 degrees today. While there will be some cloud, there will also be good, hazy sunshine and it will remain dry throughout the day. Tonight, clouds will return and temperatures will drop to six to eight degrees with light southwesterly winds. It is recommended to wear sunscreen as the UV index will be around moderate to high today. Hay fever sufferers can breathe a sigh of relief as the pollen count is set to stay relatively low today and tomorrow.
This weekend is set to be warm with temperatures hitting as high as the south of France, with similar temperatures in Cannes of around 20C on Saturday. Here’s Met Eireann’s latest overall forecast for the country:
Thursday is expected to be dry in the morning with a mix of cloud and bright spells. It will turn cloudier with some rain likely for a time later in the afternoon and evening. Highs of 16 to 18 degrees are expected with light southwest to west breezes.
Thursday night, a few spots of rain will linger in the east, clearing. Becoming dry in most areas with clear spells. The odd patch of mist or fog will form in just light westerly winds. Lowest temperatures of 4 to 8 degrees.
Friday will be mostly dry with isolated showers. A good deal of cloud around with just occasional sunshine. Highs of 15 to 19 degrees with light northwest breezes.
Saturday will see some patchy rain likely in Atlantic coastal counties; staying mostly dry further east with a mix of cloud and bright spells. Highs for most between 16 to 19 or perhaps 20 degrees, but cooler under cloudier skies to the west. Just light breezes.
Dubliners can look forward to a warm and sunny weekend ahead. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and enjoy the beautiful weather while it lasts.
