Ireland is set to experience a dramatic dip in temperatures as winter weather makes an early appearance. Met Éireann, the national meteorological service, has issued a yellow weather warning effective for the entire country. As Monday night approaches, citizens in several counties should prepare for potential snowfall and sleet, particularly in parts of Ulster and Connacht.
Snowfall Expected in Northern and Western Counties
Forecasts indicate that counties Cavan, Donegal, and Leitrim are most likely to witness snow accumulations and slippery conditions. Similarly, Northern Ireland’s counties including Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry are under a yellow warning, with snow and ice possibly creating hazardous travel scenarios from Monday afternoon into Tuesday morning.
Throughout Monday, rain is expected to be widespread, transitioning into sleet or snow in the colder regions of Ulster and northern Connacht by evening. Daytime temperatures will vary, peaking at a chilly 3 to 5 degrees Celsius in Ulster, while other parts might experience milder weather, reaching up to 12 degrees Celsius.
Icy Nights and Wintry Days Ahead
The night will not only carry on the rain but also bring sleet and snow, especially in northern areas, where elevation may lead to significant snow build-up. Frost and ice will also make an appearance, particularly in northern Ulster, with temperatures plummeting to as low as -1 degree Celsius.
Tuesday promises more widespread sleet and snow, starting in the north and moving southward in the afternoon. Although brief sunny intervals may follow, wintry showers are expected to persist, especially in the north. The highest temperatures will struggle to rise above 6 degrees Celsius.
A Cold Week in Forecast
The weather outlook for the rest of the week remains frosty. Nighttime temperatures are predicted to fall below zero on Tuesday and Wednesday, potentially reaching -3 degrees Celsius. The frost may linger into Thursday morning, making for icy starts, and although some sunshine might break through, northern and western regions could see continued rain and snow showers.
