Meteorological authorities in Ireland and Northern Ireland have issued multiple weather warnings as temperatures are set to fall and icy conditions develop across large parts of the island.
In the Republic of Ireland, Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning covering counties Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow, and parts of Munster. The alert, in effect from 6pm today until 11am tomorrow, warns that temperatures could drop to between -2°C and -4°C in many areas, increasing the risk of icy roads and hazardous conditions.
A separate Status Yellow snow and ice warning has also been issued for counties Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Connacht, and Louth. This alert is valid over the same period, from 6pm until 11am tomorrow, as forecasters caution that snow and ice could disrupt travel.
Northern Ireland is also under yellow alerts. The UK Met Office has warned that snow and ice may cause travel disruptions throughout the weekend and into Monday morning. Counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry are currently covered by a snow and ice warning, valid until midday. Another alert for the same counties is set to take effect at midday and will remain in place until midday Monday.
Earlier warnings have already been in place. In Donegal, a Status Yellow snow and ice warning was active from 8pm last night until 11am today. Met Éireann warned of wintry showers with some snow accumulations during this period, highlighting the potential for slippery conditions on roads and pavements.
Authorities are advising motorists and the public to exercise caution while travelling. Icy patches and snow accumulations could make driving hazardous, particularly on untreated rural roads. People are also advised to take care when walking outdoors and to check local forecasts before heading out.
The cold snap follows a period of relatively mild winter weather in many parts of Ireland. Meteorologists say the drop in temperatures is caused by cold air moving in from the north, bringing the risk of frost, icy surfaces, and scattered snow showers over the next 24 hours.
Residents in affected areas are being urged to plan ahead, dress warmly, and allow extra travel time. Road maintenance teams in both the Republic and Northern Ireland have been mobilised to treat key routes, but authorities caution that conditions could remain hazardous until temperatures rise later in the week.
