A YELLOW weather warning for snow and ice has been issued by Met Eireann today and is in place until at least Saturday.

The national warning is for snow, sleet and widespread frost with the North West expected to be significantly impacted by freezing conditions.

 

The warning comes after a wintry weekend which saw more than 2,000 households and businesses across the county without electricity following strong winds and rain on Saturday night.

 

According to Met Éireann, temperatures will drop as low as -3C. They are warning of a “very cold” week ahead with “scattered wintry showers, frequent across the southwest, west and north.”

Met Eireann forecasters confirmed: “Some accumulations of snow are expected. There will be widespread frost at night with icy stretches on untreated surfaces. There is the possibility of a more significant spell of sleet/snow on Thursday.”

The warning came into effect on Tuesday morning at 6am. It will remain in place until Saturday at 6pm.

Forecasters said they will update the warning at 10am on Wednesday morning.

 

AA Roadwatch issued a warning, urging drivers to take extra care during the coldsnap.

 

They said in a statement: “Met Éireann have issued a Status Yellow warning for very cold weather for the entire country.

“Wintry showers are likely across the north of the country, with accumulations of snow expected. There will be widespread frost at night with ice on untreated surfaces.

“Remember stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice and snow, and that gentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving.”

Severe frost and ice patches are expected widespread across the country on Tuesday night coming into Wednesday morning, which could see snow in some areas.

 

“Wednesday will continue very cold with sunny spells and scattered wintry showers. Some will be sleet or snow, especially in northern areas and on hills and mountains.

“Highest temperatures of 3 to 7 degrees with mostly light west to northwest breezes. On Wednesday night, severe frost and icy patches will develop.

 

“Thursday will start off mainly dry. Rain, sleet and snow will gradually spread from the southwest. It will be very cold with temperatures of just 2 to 6 degrees and moderate to fresh easterly winds. Frost and ice will develop on Thursday night along with further wintry showers.”