Ireland snow forecast: Met Eireann pinpoints day shock -6C Arctic weather blast engulfs country

Ireland is set to experience a freezing Arctic blast - with Met Eireann confirming a dramatic weather U-turn that will send temperatures plummeting and could bring snow to many parts of the country.

After weeks of unseasonably mild weather, the national forecaster is warning that bitterly cold conditions will sweep across Ireland next week, marking a sharp and sudden change as the country heads into the latter part of November.

The weather agency's latest forecast paints a chilling picture for the week ahead with low pressure centered to the east set to dominate Ireland's weather pattern. This will draw in freezing Arctic air from the north, bringing what Met Eireann describes as an “Arctic maritime regime” to the country. As a result, Ireland will experience a blast of icy winds and a high risk of wintry showers, including snow, sleet and hail.

READ MORE: Map shows exact areas at risk of snow as Met Eireann gives verdict

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Next week has been pinpointed as the exact time when Ireland will experience its first significant taste of winter. The national forecaster said: "From Monday, November 18 to Sunday, November 24 colder than average with low pressure centred to the east dominating. Arctic maritime regime indicated with potential for wintry hazards including hail, sleet and snow. Rainfall amounts above average, especially near coasts, indicative of shower activity."

Long-range weather map, subject to change, showing snow over much of Ireland on Tuesday, November 19
(Image: WXCharts)

This new forecast aligns with long-range weather models, which suggest that snow could blanket large parts of Ireland, with temperatures dipping as low as -6C in some areas. According to these models, the first wintry showers could arrive in the northwest on Monday, November 18, before gradually spreading across the country throughout the week, clearing by Sunday, November 24.

Long-range weather map, subject to change, showing snow over much of Ireland on Tuesday, November 19
(Image: WXCharts)

Temperatures next week will be cutting at times, with daytime highs struggling to reach above freezing in many areas. Overnight temperatures are also set to plummet, with lows potentially dipping to -6C on Friday, November 22, according to WXCharts.

Long-range weather map predicting -6C lows at noon on Friday, November 22
(Image: WXCharts)

In the meantime, Ireland is already beginning to feel the effects of the changing weather. Overnight temperatures have fallen below freezing in several areas, and a Status Yellow weather warning for fog is in place for every county, except Mayo and Sligo, until 10am. today. The warning highlights the risk of poor visibility and hazardous driving conditions due to widespread mist and fog.

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