Temperature records have been smashed as Ireland continues to bask in an early summer heatwave.

After a harsh spring, Ireland is currently as warm as Greek resort Crete and hotter than Portuguese capital Lisbon and French hotspot Nice.

The good news for those enjoying the May sunshine is that it is set to last for at least another week according to weather forecasters.

The temperature hit gauges hit 82 degrees Fahrenheit in places over the weekend  with some areas of Ireland warmer than Egypt as crowds flocked to beaches and parks.

The good weather is set to continue into the June bank holiday weekend.

“Warm, bright and sunny conditions will continue unabated in most of the country, the temperatures will not be quite as high as last week but it will remain very pleasant overall with lots of sunshine,” said a forecaster with the state run Met Eireann weather service.

The surprisingly good weather has already proven to be a bonanza for the country’s hard hit tourism industry.

Supermarkets have reported a massive surge in the sale of BBQ foods, pubs with beer gardens are doing a roaring trade and hotel bookings are up.

Louise Tolerton, spokesperson with tourism group Failte Ireland, said: “Good weather meant more people at outdoor attractions.”

Shannon, Mace Head and Belmullet all recorded temperatures of  as records were broken for this time of year.