The Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS) has said there are currently no plans to close marts during the current hot weather.

A Status Yellow high temperature warning issued by Met Éireann for the entire country is due to remain in place until 9:00a.m on Friday morning (June 26).

Maximum temperatures in excess of 27°C are expected in the coming days with the mercury climbing to 30° or more in places on Thursday.

Marts

Ray Doyle, livestock and environmental services executive of ICOS, told Agriland: "Marts are very mindful of animal welfare considerations".

"At present there are no plans for mart closures arising from currently forecast weather conditions.

"Livestock movements associated with mart activity are relatively short and typically less than 60km.

"Livestock should be well watered prior to departure and watered on arrival at the mart.

"All marts provide ample water facilities at unloading points and cattle handling areas in marts are roofed to avoid direct sunlight," he said.

Weather

In its latest farming commentary, Met Éireann said the next 7 days will see temperatures several degrees above the June average.

The national forecaster said that it will be "exceptionally warm" over the next few days before temperatures fall over the weekend.

Overall, mean air temperatures are forecast to be 3° to 5° above normal values over the next seven days.

It will be mainly dry over the coming days, with some isolated showers in places.

There is a chance of a few heavy showers or thunderstorms breaking out later in the week, particularly in the west and north.

Met Éireann said the weather will become more changeable from Saturday with occasional rain and showers in all areas.

Overall, rainfall totals during the next 7 days are forecast to be below normal in the east and south and above normal in the west and north.