Met Éireann has upgraded its weather alert system, issuing a Status Orange ice warning for 25 counties, including Dublin, as the severe cold snap continues to grip Ireland.
Previously, the country was under a Status Yellow snow and ice warning until 12 PM today, with a Yellow low-temperature warning in place until midnight. However, the Yellow alert has now been elevated to Status Orange for 22 counties and extended to 25 counties starting from 6 PM on Wednesday.
Affected Counties and Timings
The Orange warning, which includes Dublin, will be in effect from 6 PM on Wednesday until 11 AM on Thursday. The current alert impacts Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Cavan, Monaghan, and all counties in Munster and Connacht.
While Dublin, Wexford, Louth, Donegal, and Northern Ireland remain under Status Yellow today, Donegal and Northern Ireland will continue under Yellow warnings tomorrow as well.
Severe Weather Conditions
Met Éireann has warned of widespread severe frost, ice, and snow accumulation, posing risks such as:
- Hazardous travel conditions on roads and footpaths
- Potential travel delays and disruptions
- Animal welfare concerns
Dublin Weather Outlook
In Dublin, temperatures are expected to remain extremely low, with daytime highs of just 1 to 4°C and persistent frost and ice in shaded areas. Overnight, temperatures are set to plummet to between -5°C and -3°C, with a chance of freezing fog on Wednesday night.
Thursday will bring little relief, with freezing conditions persisting despite occasional sunshine. Wintry showers will primarily affect the north and west in the morning, becoming isolated later in the day.
National Forecast Highlights
- Thursday Night: Temperatures could drop to as low as -7°C in some areas. Cloud cover will increase from the southwest, bringing sleet and snow before transitioning to rain.
- Friday: Milder conditions are expected, with temperatures ranging between 0°C and 5°C overnight and daytime highs reaching 6°C to 10°C.
Looking ahead, Met Éireann forecasts a slight improvement in conditions over the weekend, with fewer wintry showers and more settled weather patterns expected nationwide.
Authorities urge residents to exercise extreme caution while traveling and to stay updated with the latest weather alerts.
