Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow Snow-Ice warning for several counties across Ireland, as forecasters predict wintry conditions, including snow, frost, and icy roads. The warning covers Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Connacht, and Louth, and is in effect from this morning until 11 a.m. tomorrow.
Temperatures are expected to drop between -2°C and -5°C, with sharp or severe frost overnight. Motorists are being urged to exercise extreme caution, as hazardous travel conditions and black ice are likely to develop on roads, while visibility may also be reduced in some areas.
Images from Glenties, Co Donegal, show mountain roads already covered in snow, highlighting the challenges facing drivers in the northwest.
In addition to the snow-ice warning, Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow Low Temperature/Ice alert for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow, and across Munster. This alert is valid from 5 p.m. today until 11 a.m. tomorrow, covering the evening and early morning periods when temperatures are at their lowest.
Northern Ireland is also experiencing similar conditions. The UK Met Office has issued a Yellow warning for snow and ice affecting Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry. The alert is valid until midday tomorrow and warns that icy stretches and snow may cause significant disruption to travel, particularly during Monday morning’s commute.
Local authorities are taking precautions to ensure road safety. Kerry County Council advised drivers to take extra care tonight and over the next few days due to freezing temperatures. Council crews are treating priority routes in accordance with the Winter Maintenance Plan, focusing on areas most at risk from frost and ice.
Commuters are being reminded to allow additional time for journeys and to drive carefully, particularly as schools reopen on Monday. Authorities warned that snow showers could still occur during the morning commute, adding to already slippery conditions.
The combination of low temperatures, frost, and wintry showers is expected to affect most of the country through Monday, with authorities urging the public to remain vigilant. Residents are advised to check the latest travel updates and road conditions before setting out, particularly in rural and elevated areas where ice and snow are most likely.
Met Éireann said the cold snap reflects a larger pattern of unsettled winter weather and cautioned that hazardous conditions could persist intermittently over the coming days, making careful planning essential for anyone travelling across affected counties.
