Due to the extreme nature of Storm Eunice and the threat of multi-hazard weather events as confirmed by Met Éireann, the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is advising that early learning and care (ELC) and school-age childcare (SAC) services in counties where Status Red wind warnings are in place and in counties where Status Orange snow and wind warnings are in place should not open tomorrow 18 February.
All ELC and SAC services should keep up-to-date with the current weather warnings which are carried on all national and local news bulletins and in particular any change in the status warning for their area.
A Status Red Alert has now been issued by Met Éireann relating to the severe wind for counties Cork and Kerry.
Status Orange snow and wind warnings have been issued for counties Donegal, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim, and Roscommon.
Met Éireann has advised that this is a multi-hazard event with wind and heavy snow. Storm Eunice will bring heavy sleet and snow leading to blizzard-like conditions in parts with treacherous driving conditions. The storm is expected to impact most during early morning commuting hours and this will make journeys to ELC and SAC services extremely hazardous in the morning.
All other counties may open ELC and SAC services subject to local conditions. Services should have regard to the guidance on winterready.ie on safe opening.
All ELC and SAC services should keep up-to-date with the current weather warnings which are carried on all national and local news bulletins and in particular any change in the status warning for their area.