Clare’s coastal communities have received a significant economic boost, as temperatures creep towards 30 degrees in parts of the county.
Business owners are reporting an increase in trade this week, compared with this stage of previous tourist seasons.
But with the extra footfall coming in, locals in Lahinch are asking people to respect their community and clean up their waste.
The heatwave is continuing in earnest today with reports from the Shannon Weather Station already putting temperatures in the high 20s today.
That’s expected to rise even further this afternoon and has seen people in their droves head to Clare’s coasts.
In Lahinch, there has been a significant boost in business since the weather first broke.
Liz Quinn Manager of Ben’s Surf Clinic says it’s been non-stop for them.
Michael Vaughan of Vaughan’s Lodge Hotel has also seen any lingering vacant rooms be snapped up as people flock to the coast.
And though the notorious traffic bottleneck of Blake’s Corner in Ennistymon has traditionally proven to be a serious problem once the summer hits, Michael says so far, that hasn’t been the case.
But, it could be down to Clare’s sporting prowess.
Despite the boost in business, not everyone is feeling the benefits of it – Lahinch SeaWorld has been quiet, as people take to the ocean rather than their pool.
Manager Joe Garrihy says while it’s challenging, they’re looking at innovating.
With the extra footfall, concern has also been raised about rubbish being left behind as well as dogs on the beaches.
Local man Richard Devereaux is urging people not to leave a mess.
And of course, when the sun comes out, ice cream is top of the agenda for most.
Eleanor Kennedy of Kennedy’s Centra says they’re working hard to keep their freezers stocked.
