Could an unexpected heatwave be on the way for Northern Ireland?
It's heating up over the next few days but how long will it last? 🌡️
Just when it looked like summer might have been gone for good, forecasters are predicting an Indian Summer across the UK from Monday.
Temperatures are expected to hit 30°C in England and Wales, according to the Met Office, with every part of the UK getting a dose of sunshine at some point.
Tuesday looks like the best day for Northern Ireland, with the mercury expected to hit 25°C in some areas.
We're advised to enjoy it while we can, there’s a big change in store on Thursday unfortunately.
An area of low pressure is expected to move in later in the week, bringing with it grey skies and wet conditions. Temperatures are expected to be much closer to the seasonal average but the time the weekend arrives.
Weekly forecast:
Today: A cloudy start but dry, skies slowly becoming brighter with a few sunny intervals developing. the best of the sunshine towards the east coast. Quite warm. Maximum temperature 21°C
Tonight: A dry evening and night with variable cloud and some clear intervals. Some longer clear spells later tonight but fog patches forming, perhaps becoming widespread in east. Minimum temperature 13°C
Tuesday: Low cloud and mist burning back to Irish Sea coasts where some may linger, otherwise a fine dry day with long sunny spells. Becoming very warm. Maximum temperature 25°C**
Outlook for Wednesday to Friday: Mostly dry with some bright or sunny spells on Wednesday, some showers possible. Some heavy, thundery showers around on Thursday. Cooler and cloudier on Friday with some patchy light rain.
Why not get outdoors before the rain creeps in - check out some of our favourite coastal walks and woodland trails.
Slieve Donard
We'll start with the toughest first, at 850m Northern Ireland's highest peak is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Set aside 3.5-6 hours to complete.
There are two routes up, via Donard Car Park and Bloody Bridge.
For the most popular route (Donard Car Park), follow the Glen River uphill through the forest.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Slieve Bearnagh
Once you've conquered Slieve Donard, why not out some of the smaller peaks in a day or for more 700m+ challenging climbs head for Slieve Binnian, Slieve Commedagh or Slieve Bearnagh.
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
The route meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, traversing over tracks, boardwalk and staircase. A steep climb is required to reach the viewing platform which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding low lands.
Set aside 5-6 hours to complete.
Dogs are not permitted.
There is a carpark at Killykeegan NNR signposted, with toilet facilities. Visitors can use the Killykeegan Nature Reserve car park or Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre.
Carrick -a-Rede Rope Bridge
A popular tourist attraction. Connected to cliffs by a rope bridge across the Atlantic Ocean. Suspended 100ft (30m) above sea level, it was first erected by salmon fisherman 350 years ago.
Set aside 1 hour to complete. A good one for beginners.
You'll need to purchase allocated time tickets.
Causeway Coastal Walk
This superb, two-day 33 mile walking route takes you along Northern Ireland's most celebrated coastline. High cliffs, pass secluded beaches and historic landmarks.
With frequent access points and terrain suitable for all fit walkers, this is one route you'll remember for years to come.
Rostrevor and Kilbroney Forest
The Cloughmore car park is 230m above sea level and provides views of the surrounding forest. There are three trails, which vary in length from 1.25 miles to 4.5 miles with great views of Carlingford Lough along the way.
Divis and Black Mountain Trial
View the city from a different perspective, from above! The Divis Ridge Trail allows the walkers to enjoy 180 degree views across the city and further afield including the Antrim Plateau to the north, Scotland to the east and the Mourne Mountains to the south.
Set aside 2-3 hours to complete. A great flat walk for beginners. 4 miles long.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Cave Hill
One of the most popular city hikes with stunning panoramic views of Belfast from the top. Start at Belfast Castle and join the 'Cave Hill' signposted route.
Set aside 1.5-3 hours to complete. A challenging 4.5 mile hike.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Slemish
It lies a few miles east of Ballymena. This route begins at Slemish Car Park about 15 minutes drive from the village of Broughshane. After following a grassy track to the base of the mountain, walkers choose their own path over rocky terrain to the summit, some 430m above sea level. According to legend, following his capture and being brought to Ireland as a slave, Saint Patrick worked as a shepherd at Slemish.
Set aside 1.5-2 hours to complete. A challenging 1.5 mile steep hike.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
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