A Status Yellow warning for low temperature and ice covering the entire country has been extended to midnight on Friday morning.
Met Éireann has cautioned against hazardous traveling conditions as temperatures remain exceptionally low.
Widespread frost and ice are anticipated, with daytime temperatures struggling to rise above freezing. The forecaster predicts “very cold” nights, adding to the nation’s travel and safety concerns.
Icy patches and significant travel disruption are expected in the coming days. Those planning to travel have been urged to prepare thoroughly, allocate extra time, and reduce speeds to ensure safety on treacherous roads.
The cold snap follows a weekend of severe weather that saw multiple Status Orange warnings issued for snow-ice and snow-rain in southern and midland counties. The recent conditions have caused widespread disruptions to essential services and daily life.
Power outages persist, with ESB Networks reporting that approximately 40,000 homes, farms, and businesses remain without electricity. The majority of these outages are concentrated in counties Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Laois.
Water supplies have also been severely affected, with Uisce Éireann revealing that 41,000 properties remain without water, primarily in Tipperary, Limerick, Kerry, and Cork.
School closures continue to impact several counties due to adverse weather conditions. Most schools in Carlow and Kilkenny are expected to remain shut following the Christmas break, with local authorities empowering school leaders to make closure decisions based on safety.
Adverse weather conditions have also forced the HSE to cancel some services in Cork, Kerry, South Tipperary, Laois, and parts of the Mid West, including outpatient appointments and day services.
Today’s forecast includes some sunshine with scattered showers of rain, hail, sleet, and snow. Daytime temperatures are expected to range from 1–5°C. With more freezing conditions predicted, authorities are emphasising caution and preparedness in the days ahead.