Weather experts have been carefully poring over charts for the coming hours and have produced maps of the snowfall as the storm hits Ireland.
All counties in Ireland are under at least a Yellow Weather Warning, with eleven under an Orange Weather Warning as temperatures are expected to reach as low as -6C. Heavy rain and snow will lash the eleven counties to the south of an imaginary line from Co Clare and Co Wicklow.
Snow began to fall in some areas of Munster and south Leinster as early as 3pm, but snow is expected to start falling widely around 6pm. As much as 21cm will accumulate overnight, with a hard freeze expected to turn much of the slushed snow to ice. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise extreme caution when travelling.
Meanwhile, respected atmospheric science communicator Carlow Weather interpreted models for the days after the cold begins to recede.
He says that the cold air will roll out for a brief spell before rolling back in, however, there is good news. Milder and more settled air will move in next weekend, Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 January 2024
“Latest upper air temperature showing cold air over Ireland with the low system today and tomorrow moving into the South before cold air moves back in for next week. Milder air likely next weekend but subject to change.”
Transport services are already urging travellers to be cautious when making their way to stations and ports across Ireland, advising that anyone hoping to travel should check with their provider for cancellations.
Shannon Airport warned fliers to allow extra time for their journey to the airport and to be vigilant in checking the status of their flights.
Snow will blanket most of the country on Saturday evening 4 January and on Sunday 5 January 2025
(Image: WX Charts)
In a message to passengers issued on Saturday morning 4 January 2025: “Weather Alert: Significant snow and ice expected across Munster this evening from 5pm Saturday 4th January & tomorrow Sunday 5th. Passengers should check with their airline for up-to-date flight information. Allow extra time for your journey to the Airport.”
Bus EIreann/TFI Townlink has similar advice as they expect the worst in parts of the country: “Due to the ice, snow & rain weather warnings, we advise checking with your transport operator before travelling as there may be delays or curtailments.”
Met Eireann urged caution as temperatures are expected to dip as low as -6C in some areas: “Status Orange – Rain and Snow warning for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick, Tipperary – Met Éireann Weather Warning. Heavy rain transitioning to sleet and snow with significant accumulations expected.”
Impacts:
• Very difficult travelling conditions
• Poor visibility
• Travel disruption delays to public transport likely (air, rail, bus)
• Difficult conditions underfoot
• Animal welfare issues
“Valid: 17:00 Saturday 04/01/2025 to 17:00 Sunday 05/01/2025”
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