Ireland is bracing for a severe cold snap as Met Éireann has expanded its Status Yellow warnings for snow and ice, now covering nine additional counties, with the entire country expected to experience the effects of a penetrating Arctic air mass.
The national forecaster warns of widespread wintry showers, accumulations of snow, and sharp to severe frost and ice across affected regions, with the potential to disrupt travel and pose health risks to vulnerable populations.
❄️ Counties Under Snow and Ice Alerts
As of Saturday, Status Yellow snow/ice warnings have been issued for:
- All counties in Connacht (Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon)
- Cavan
- Donegal
- Monaghan
- Louth
These warnings are in effect from 6pm Saturday to 11am Sunday, with a second warning issued for Sunday morning (from 8:22am) until 11am Monday, suggesting the wintry conditions will persist into the start of the working week.
Met Éireann’s advisory highlights the possibility of hazardous travel conditions, especially on untreated roads, as sleet and snow showers move inland from the northwest. Icy patches and frozen surfaces are likely overnight and into the early morning hours.
More information and real-time updates can be found on the Met Éireann website.
🌡️ Status Yellow Ice and Low Temperature Warnings Widen
In addition to snow and ice alerts, low temperature/ice warnings remain in place for:
- All of Munster
- Carlow
- Dublin
- Kildare
- Kilkenny
- Laois
- Longford
- Meath
- Offaly
- Westmeath
- Wexford
- Wicklow
These areas are expected to see temperatures fall to as low as -5°C, particularly in inland and sheltered areas. The warning is valid from 6pm Saturday to 11am Sunday, with a second warning coming into effect at 5pm Sunday, also running until 11am Monday.
According to Met Éireann, such sharp drops in temperature will likely result in widespread icy surfaces, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians and drivers alike.
For advice on how to stay safe during cold snaps, visit the Winter Ready campaign.
🚨 Homeless Services Respond Amid Freezing Conditions
With the freezing weather posing serious risks to those sleeping rough, local authorities and homelessness charities have mobilised to provide additional emergency beds and shelter.
The Simon Community has called on the public to support efforts by alerting local services if they see anyone sleeping rough.
“During extreme cold weather, a quick call can save a life,” a spokesperson for Simon said. “If you see someone in distress or without shelter, please contact your local authority or homeless outreach team immediately.”
The Dublin Region Homeless Executive (DRHE) confirmed it has activated its Cold Weather Response Plan, ensuring additional accommodation and support is available across the capital.
If you’re concerned about someone sleeping rough, contact the Freephone Rough Sleeper Alert Line at 1800 707 707 or use the Dublin Rough Sleeper Alert Form.
🌍 UK and Northern Ireland Also Affected
The cold front is also impacting Northern Ireland, with the UK Met Office issuing its own snow and ice alerts valid from Saturday at noon until Monday at noon.
Wintry conditions are forecast to spread across much of Ulster, with significant disruption possible, particularly on Sunday night and into Monday.
For cross-border travel, motorists are advised to check local updates and road conditions before setting out, especially in elevated or exposed regions.
