Southwest hit by thunderstorms

Over 120 lightning strikes were reported across counties Kerry, Limerick and Cork on Wednesday afternoon.

For the second day running, thunderstorms developed in the west bringing isolated torrential downpours.

Met Éireann had earlier issued a Status Yellow thunderstorm alert for the three counties, warning of localised spot flooding.

The majority of the thunderstorm activity occurred in North Kerry, with lightning also reported in Kilmallock (Limerick) and Newmarket (Cork).

Thursday through mid-week next week will remain fine and dry, with an increasing likelihood that the highest temperature of the year to date will be beaten in the west or northwest over the next three days. Athenry in Galway‘s record April temperature of 25.9°C was recorded on the last day of the month.

Temperatures will gradually dip back to the low to mid-teens from mid-week next week. High pressure will weaken, allowing Atlantic systems to encroach from the west.