DUBLIN, Ireland: The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued a strong safety warning ahead of this weekend's expected heatwave, urging swimmers to be cautious and watch out for dangerous rip currents.

With Met Éireann forecasting temperatures in the low 30s—possibly nearing Ireland's record of 33.3 degrees Centigrade set in Kilkenny in 1887—many people are expected to head to the water to cool off.

A Status Yellow high temperature warning is already in effect for 14 counties and will expand nationwide from midday Saturday. Water Safety Ireland has echoed the RNLI's concerns, reminding the public that increased heat and rising tides also increase risk. Both organizations are calling on people to enjoy water activities responsibly.

RNLI Water Safety Lead Linda-Gene Byrne, speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, emphasized the dangers of rip currents, calling them "very, very dangerous and very hard to spot." She advised anyone caught in a rip current not to fight it.

"Float to live," she urged. "Lie on your back, keep your mouth above water, and wait until the current weakens enough to move to the side and swim parallel to the shore."

"If you try to swim against the rip, you'll exhaust yourself," Byrne warned. "If you're in trouble and can't return to shore, raise your hand and shout for help."

She stressed that bystanders should not attempt rescues themselves, as they could also get caught in the current. Instead, they should immediately call 999 or 112 and request the Coastguard, giving precise details about the location and the person in distress.

Byrne strongly recommended visiting lifeguarded beaches, where staff monitor for rip currents daily and mark safe swimming zones with flags. For those unfamiliar with local conditions, she suggested speaking to residents and always obeying warning signs.

Lakes and rivers will also attract crowds this weekend, but Byrne reminded the public that these waters are typically colder than the sea and can pose hidden dangers like rocks and debris. Cold water shock can hit swimmers suddenly, but she advised: "Don't panic. Float on your back until it passes—usually in 60 to 90 seconds."

Meanwhile, a red forest fire warning is in effect, with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine urging "high vigilance" due to an extreme fire risk. Authorities are calling on the public to exercise caution in all outdoor activities during the heatwave.