Heavy rain and strong southwesterly winds are set to lash the country tonight after a dry and sunny day.
A forecaster said: “Today will be mainly dry with just isolated showers and good sunny spells.
“However, in the evening cloud will thicken from the south-west with patchy rain along Atlantic coasts later.
“Top temperatures will be around 17C to 21C, warmest in the southeast and east.
Tonight the rain will spread from the west, becoming widespread and heavy as it moves eastwards across the country.
Met Eireann added: "Tonight will be overcast and windy with a spell of rain in all areas.
"The rain will be heavy for a time and accompanied by strong southerly winds, low cloud and mist but a clearance will follow from the west towards morning."
It will remain mild tonight with minimum temperatures of 13C to 15C.
Any rain still affecting the east will clear quickly tomorrow morning, and Friday will be a bright fresh and breezy day with sunny spells.
Most areas will have good dry and sunny spells, but passing showers will occur too - especially across the midlands, north and west. Southwest winds will be fresh and gusty.
Highest temperatures will reach 17C to 20C.
Looking ahead to the weekend, it'll be a bright fresh and breezy day with a mix of sunny periods and occasional passing showers.
The north and northwest will be hit by heavy and prolonged rain during the evening and overnight while it will be blustery near western coasts.
