Severe Snowfall Alert in Ireland: Met Éireann Issues Orange Weather Warnings
Snow, ice, and heavy rain are set to sweep over Ireland this weekend, with two status orange weather alerts issued by Met Éireann. A 24-hour orange snow and ice warning comes into effect from 5 pm on Saturday for Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary. A separate orange rain and snow warning for Cork, Kerry, and Waterford for the same 24-hour period has also been issued. Status yellow weather warnings have been issued for all other counties.
Impacts on Travel and Services
Iarnród Éireann is advising travelers to consider if their journey is necessary this weekend due to the expected severe weather conditions. All routes are planned to operate, but delays and disruptions may occur. Stranded vehicles on the roads, delayed or canceled rail and air travel, and power cuts are all likely as the country faces a week-long spell of wintry conditions. Rural communities could be cut off, with up to 30cm of snowfall expected in some areas.
Dublin Airport’s snow and ice teams are on standby, advising passengers to consult with individual airlines for updates on specific flights and to allow plenty of time for traveling to the airport. Severe Weather Assessment Teams linked to Cork County Council and Waterford City and County Council have been convening ahead of the orange weather warnings. Motorists are advised to be cautious of hazardous driving conditions, avoid unnecessary journeys, take care while walking on icy footpaths, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Expert Insights and Precautions
Meteorologist Joanna Donnelly from Met Éireann explains that a polar air mass moving over Ireland is causing the cold snap. The frigid weather is expected to last well into the next week, with the possibility of snow and sleet continuing. Taoiseach Simon Harris has briefed the Directorate of Emergency Management on the severe weather event, emphasizing the dangerous traveling conditions.
Motorists are advised to drive slowly in snowy conditions, avoid panicking during a slide, and refrain from braking too hard. With the impending cold spell, rough sleepers face particular challenges. Nikita ‘Nikki’ Kenny, who has been homeless for 18 years, shared her experience of enduring the cold weather while sleeping on the streets of Dublin.
Stay tuned for further updates on the severe weather conditions and Met Éireann warnings on irishtimes.com live story throughout the day. Stay safe and be prepared for the upcoming wintry weather.