Best of the weather due Thursday and Friday afternoons

The best of the current fine weather is expected in the Midlands from this afternoon through to Friday evening.

Sunny spells will be prevalent throughout the region this afternoon (Thursday) and through Friday afternoon.

Peak temperatures of 20 degrees are expected throughout Friday afternoon, from 3-6pm.

However, Met Eireann says there will be a gradual transition towards cloudier conditions over the weekend.

It will feel cooler into next week with temperatures returning to nearer normal.

Today will be dry with sunny spells. Perhaps a bit more cloud in the southwest. Highest temperatures of around 19 degrees in the midlands, at around 4 and 5pm.

Temperatures will be low tonight down to as low as 3 degrees.

Friday morning will be dry with sunny spells. Another warm day with highest of 17 to 20 degrees and the midlands experiencing the best temperatures from around 3-6pm.

However, it will be cloudier on Saturday, although thee will still be temperatures of up to 19 degrees during the afternoon.

Sunday may have some slight rain for a short spell with temperatures possibly reaching 15-16 degrees.