Ireland’s temperate climate could make it a “lifeboat destination” for visitors in years to come as heatwaves spread across southern Europe.
Record temperatures of almost 40C were seen in parts of Spain last week, marking what scientists warn will be the new norm because of climate change.
John Sweeney, emeritus professor of geography at Maynooth University, highlighted how the recent figures from southern Europe, as well as a record temperatures in the Phoenix Park last summer, were only the start of a long-term trend towards global warming.
However, the searing temperatures could provide an opportunity for the Irish tourism industry. Protected, for now, by an oceanic buffer, Ireland’s temperate climate could make it a “lifeboat” for visitors and climate refugees in years to come, he
