County Council issue warning to public as Status Yellow low temperature alert comes into effect
Temperatures are set to drop as low as -10C over the coming days, with significant accumulations of snowfall likely in some parts of the country
A warning has been issued to members of the public as the entire country has been placed under a low temperature/ice weather alert amid a bone-chilling cold snap.
Temperatures are set to plummet as low as -10C over the coming days bringing wintry showers of hail, sleet and snow, along with widespread frost, ice and freezing fog.
In anticipation of the cold conditions intensifying, Met Eireann has issued a rare 'double' warning for low temperatures and ice, covering the entire country. While warnings are typically issued for singular weather events, this Status Yellow alert combines both hazards.
READ MORE: 'Disruptive' snow to wreak havoc as Met Eireann warns of -10C temperatures
The 17-hour warning came into place at 6pm on Thursday and continues until 11am tomorrow. Issuing the warning, the national forecast stated: "Very cold with widespread frost and ice as temperatures fall to -3C or below in many areas. Potential impacts include hazardous travelling conditions and animal welfare issues."
Met Éireann has also issued a weather advisory for sleet and snow in places this weekend. A spell of rain will spread northwards over Ireland during the course of Saturday, turning to sleet and snow in some areas. Rain, sleet and snow will continue for a time on Sunday leading to hazardous conditions and travel disruption.
Cork County Council is urging motorists to take extreme care on the roads amid the ongoing cold snap. Members of the public are being advised that wintry showers and icy surfaces will lead to difficult travel conditions.
Driving conditions will be hazardous, even where roads are gritted, and motorists are urged to slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey.
Pedestrians are also being urged to take extra care while walking as footpaths can be extremely hazardous/slippery due to ice.
People are advised to prepare for this period of severe weather including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication. Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112.
People are advised to monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. The Be Winter Ready website https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/aa78b9-be-winter-ready provides further advice on preparing for severe weather.
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