Brace yourself for the big freeze with -4C forecast

A spokesman for the national forecaster said it would be ‘very cold’ this morning, with a risk of freezing fog and icy patches, so motorists should take care.

Met Éireann has issued two status yellow low temperature and ice warnings.

The first warning is for Leinster and Munster, as well as counties Cavan, Monaghan, Galway and Roscommon, where it will be very cold overnight and this morning.

Meanwhile, counties Donegal, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo could see sleet or snow showers, according to Met Éireann’s second warning.

The warnings came into effect at 7pm last night and continue in effect until 11am today.

A second status yellow snow and ice warning has been issued for Donegal from 6pm today until 11am tomorrow.

The national forecaster is warning that lowest temperatures will range between -3C and 1C, and it could possibly be even colder in the midlands.

And temperatures are forecast to drop even lower to -4C in parts of the country tomorrow, so be careful on the roads and be sure to check on your animals.

In the North, the PSNI warned motorists that they should remain cautious on the roads due to the freezing temperatures. A PSNI spokesman said: ‘Speed should be reduced by motorists.’

It comes as the UK Met Office issued a snow and ice warning for the North between 3am today and 9am tomorrow.

It said snow showers would bring some disruption – warning people that roads and railways are likely to be affected, with longer journey times on some services.

The forecaster said there is a likelihood of injuries from falls on icy surfaces such as untreated roads, paths and cycleways.

Furthermore, a separate yellow-level snow warning will come into effect in northern areas for Wednesday and Thursday. WRAP up warm, it’s chilly and getting colder. Temperatures are to remain icy as Met Éireann has issued cold weather warnings with a spine-chilling -4C forecast for parts of the country.