In the year of staycations the weather is set to play a blinder across Northern Ireland this weekend.
Tops were off in towns and beaches across the north on Friday as sunseekers made a dash to enjoy the sunshine on the hottest day of the year so far.
In Donaghadee youngsters cooled off in the harbour while visitors to Helen’s Bay waited in line for a 99.
The mercury hit almost 27 °C in Castlederg, Co Tyrone making it the second hottest town across the island of Ireland.
Armagh, Belfast, Ballywatticock and Helen’s Bay were not far behind - each recording 26 °C and over.
The mercury is expected to reach similar levels across the north on Saturday with Sunday a little cooler - which should bring some relief for those complaining ‘it’s far too hot’.
But you can still expect temperatures to stay in the 20s throughout the weekend - making it the perfect chance for a jaunt to the beach or a picnic in the park. Just don’t forget to pack the sun cream and plenty of ice lollies.
The Met Office forecast for the weekend lists highs of 28 °C on Saturday followed by 22 °C on Sunday.
Today, they say UV levels will be very high while pollen levels are up there too.
A spokesperson said Saturday we will see "mainly sunny skies and becoming very warm or hot in the south and east".
But they added that "sea breezes [will] keep it fresher around most coasts with patchy mist possible.
"Maximum temperature 28 °C."
Tonight:
It will be mainly sunny or clear this evening, but mist and low cloud developing overnight with some fog patches. Minimum temperature 12 °C.
Sunday:
The low cloud and mist generally clearing fairly quickly during the morning, but could linger for a time around the north coast. Otherwise bright with sunny spells. Maximum temperature 25 °C.
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