Snow joke as country braced for severe frost

MET Éireann has warned that Ireland will be hit with incredibly low temperatures today – with the barometer plunging to -7C last night.

The low temperature warning is in effect until midday today, with severe frost, snowfall and freezing fog forecast.

The warning states: ‘ Hazardous icy conditions in places with a widespread severe f r ost and pockets of freezing fog.’ It added that there will be ‘ i mproving conditions in the west and northwest’ from early this morning.

Motorists in particular were asked

-7C

Barometer fell to this temperature last night

to watch out for hazardous road conditions last night and into this morning.

Parts of Leinster and Munster saw temperatures dip to -7C last night with snowfall forecast.

Some win try showers are forecast for the east of Leinster today, with patchy rain and drizzle gradually moving into the west and northwest of the country.

Tonight, temperatures will drop between -3C and 2C, with frost and ice expected.

It will be coldest under clearest skies, where frost, ice, mist and fog will set in. Tomorrow will see dry weather in many areas with a mix of cloud and some sunny spells, and just light south-westerly breezes.

Meanwhile, Alone, a charity for the elderly, is urging older people to take extra care as temperatures begin to drop during the cold snap in the coming days.

The charity is also calling on people to assist elderly neighbours with grocery shopping, collecting prescriptions and other practical tasks during the bad weather.

Older people can be more vulnerable during poor weather conditions, especially those living alone or in rural areas, those with health issues, and those with limited mobility.

Seán Moynihan, CEO of Alone, said: ‘ Older people may also be feeling worried due to the current restrictions.

‘ Many older people are often embarrassed to reach out, and think that by asking for help and support they are bothering people.

‘Alone want them to know that they deserve the support they require and should not be afraid to ask for help if needed.’

Alone can be reached on 0818 222 024 and will also offer its services to older people if they call for assistance.