
Ireland is bracing for a “multi-hazard weather event” this weekend and into next week, with Met Éireann issuing Status Orange and Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice. Forecaster Gerry Murphy warned of significant snowfall, particularly across the southern half of the country, with potential for sleet or snow in all areas at some point from Saturday evening into Sunday.
A Status Orange snow and ice warning is in effect from 5 pm Saturday to 5 pm Sunday for Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary. The initial Status Yellow warning for Cork and Kerry has also been upgraded to Orange, effective from 5 pm Saturday. These warnings signal the potential for very difficult travel conditions, including disruptions to public transport (air, rail, and bus), challenging conditions underfoot, and risks to animal welfare.
A Status Yellow snow and ice warning, indicating less severe but still potentially disruptive conditions, is also in place from 5 pm Saturday to 5 pm Sunday for Leinster, Connacht, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, and Waterford.
Murphy explained on RTÉ Radio One that while the south coast is more likely to see rain, significant rainfall amounts are expected in the southwest, potentially leading to rainfall warnings in that region. He also highlighted the possibility of snow accumulation and severe frost on Monday morning, raising concerns about potential school closures. The Department of Education stated that decisions regarding school closures or delayed openings will be made by individual school management authorities based on local conditions and guidance from principal response agencies, prioritizing child safety.
The cold weather is expected to persist into next week, hindering snow melt. In response to the anticipated cold snap, the Dublin Region Homeless Executive has announced the availability of 82 additional beds for those experiencing homelessness. They are actively monitoring the situation and will activate the extra accommodation if a weather warning is issued. The Executive encourages the public to report individuals sleeping rough through their website or app, Dublin City Rough Sleeper Alerts.
Alone, an organization supporting older people, has urged extra caution to prevent slips and falls on icy surfaces, highlighting the serious and potentially fatal consequences of such incidents, particularly for those over 75. They are calling on the public to check on elderly and isolated neighbors during this period of cold weather.
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