The month of July got off to a benign start weather wise on Sunday as temperatures up to 21 degrees were forecast, with mostly dry spells across most of the country.
Monday will be wetter and cooler with rain forecast for most places and with some heavy falls possible.
The rain will tend to be lighter and patchier in south Munster and south Leinster. Temperatures will be 14 to 19 degrees.
Tuesday is also expected to be wet in many areas with occasionally heavy rain but this will ease during the day to give way to drier, brighter spells.
Wednesday looks like being one of the best days of this week with warm sunshine and temperatures rising into the low 20s in most places with bright spells.
While there is uncertainly over the outlook for the rest of the week, Friday and the weekend are expected to be a mixture of sunshine and showers although temperatures will fall back and it will feel fresher and cooler than Wednesday.