Government Advises Older People to Avoid Sun Amid High Temperatures, Record Threat

The government has advised older people to avoid direct sunlight as unusually intense hot weather continues, with temperatures reaching the high 20s this week and Ireland's all-time record potentially threatened on Thursday. A nationwide high temperature warning is in effect until Friday. Minister for Older People Kieran O’Donnell urged older individuals and caregivers to take precautions like staying cool and hydrated, and to be alert for signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Older people, especially those over 65, are highly vulnerable. Nursing Home Ireland chief Tadhg Daly stressed hydration, advising residents to drink water regularly and stay indoors with curtains closed. If residents go out, it should be for short periods in the shade, avoiding the warmest part of the day. The Department of Health recommends staying out of the heat between 11 am and 3 pm, keeping curtains closed during the day, and opening windows at night.

Other at-risk groups include those with long-term health conditions, people on certain medications, babies, young children, and those living alone. The HSE listed heat exhaustion symptoms as dizziness, headaches, nausea, confusion, increased heart rate, and reduced urination, advising medical help for those unwell. Red Cross senior climate officer Mary Friel highlighted the hidden risk of indoor heat and urged checking on vulnerable or isolated individuals.

The current hot spell, driven by warm air from Europe, is expected to peak on Thursday before cooler conditions arrive over the weekend. This comes as France recorded its highest national temperature indicator since 1947, and heat alerts were issued in Italy and other countries. Recurring heatwaves are increasing in frequency and intensity due to global warming.