Wrap up, here comes the snow
WEATHER experts have issued stern warnings to be prepared for upcoming strong winds, heavy showers... and even snow.
Storm Jake is about to sweep the country, bringing with it the worst of winter weather, coming in along the western coast and crossing the country to Leinster.
IT may be March but snow is to spring a surprise as a wintry Storm Jake is set to sweep the country today.
And while weather warnings for strong winds, hail, sleet and snow will be lifted by 10am today, the country will continue to be battered by gusts and wintry showers for the rest of the day – and for the rest of the week.
A Met Éireann spokeswoman said: ‘Storm Jake is going to bring storm force winds off the west coast and we have a status orange wind alert for the north, south and west coasts.’
Orange and yellow warnings in place
‘An orange weather warning is in place for strong winds for counties Galway, Mayo, Clare, Kerry, Limerick and Waterford, where westerly winds veering northwest are expected to reach speeds of 65 to 75kph with gusts of 110 to 130kph at times overnight on Tuesday.
The rest of Ireland has also been put on alert with a yellow weather warning signalling strong winds that will increase to speeds of 50 to 65kph with gusts of 90 to 100kph.
‘The warning is in operation until 8am but the weather will remain quite breezy through tomorrow.
‘Finally, a second yellow weather warning for snow-ice has been issued with heavy snow showers expected overnight leading to accumulations of 3cm in parts of Connacht, Ulster and Leinster, and larger accumulations likely on higher ground.’
The spokeswoman added: ‘It’s going to be cold and showery right up until the weekend with probably some more snow showers, so it’s a cold start to March.’
And motorists have been warned to take extra care on the roads with the elements creating hazardous conditions. Conor Faughnan, AA Ireland Director of Consumer Affairs, said: ‘We are reminding drivers to be mindful of other road users and ensure that they’re visible; clear snow from your headlights and roof and have on your dipped headlights.
‘If bad weather does transpire we’re prepared for a surge in calls to our rescue centre with patrols on standby, but drivers can nonetheless make it easier on themselves by taking the proper precautions.’
He added: ‘Remember that stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice and snow. If you find yourself skidding on an icy road, don’t brake fast. Instead, reduce acceleration but not completely and reduce your gears to come to a gradual halt.’
‘Use major routes as they are more likely to be have been gritted than secondary roads. However, even roads that are used regularly can be badly affected so keep an eye on AA Roadwatch updates.’