Ireland is bracing for a significant “multi-weather hazard event” as Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange warning for snow and ice for six counties, forecasting substantial snowfall and hazardous conditions.
The alert will be active from 5 PM tomorrow until 5 PM on Sunday, impacting the counties of Carlow, Kilkenny, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary. Authorities have warned of difficult travel conditions, delays to public transport services (air, rail, and bus), animal welfare concerns, and slippery surfaces.
Additionally, a Status Yellow rain and snow warning has been issued for Cork and Kerry from 1 PM tomorrow until 5 PM on Sunday. Heavy rainfall is expected to transition into sleet and snow, posing risks of hazardous travel, poor visibility, and localized flooding.
A broader Status Yellow snow and ice warning covers Leinster, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, and Connacht during the same period, highlighting the widespread impact of the upcoming weather event.
In Northern Ireland, the UK Met Office has announced a Yellow warning for ice in Antrim, Down, Tyrone, and Derry from 4 PM today until 10 AM tomorrow, cautioning against icy roads and potential travel disruptions.
Met Éireann’s Senior Forecaster, Gerry Murphy, explained that the current cold snap will persist into tonight, with temperatures potentially plummeting to -4°C. As milder air clashes with the cold front tomorrow, rain is expected to turn into sleet and snow across many regions.
He emphasized that further clarity on snow accumulations and potential school closures will emerge over the weekend as forecasters gather more precise data.
Travelers are urged to exercise caution, plan ahead, and stay updated on weather warnings as the country prepares for this severe weather event.
