The met office has issued an orange warning and a yellow alert for extremely high temperatures on Thursday. The warnings are valid from 12 noon until 6pm.

It said that the maximum temperature over the highest mountainous areas is expected to rise to around 34C.

It also issued a yellow alert, also valid from 12 noon until 6pm for a high of 41C inland.

Meanwhile, the forestry department has issued a red warning for forest fires on Thursday.

In case of fire the public is urged to call immediately 1407 (forestry department) or 112 (fire service).