Warning as temperatures expected to plunge below zero across Ireland

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

A low temperature warning was announced for the Republic on Monday, with parts of the country expected to experience a drop to minus 5 degrees Celsius overnight.

Met Éireann forecast lingering frost, icy patches, and mist on Monday morning with highest temperatures throughout the day between 2 and 6 degrees.

It said Monday night will be “very cold” with icy patches and a widespread sharp to severe frost.

The agency announced a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning for the whole country due to the cold conditions, scheduled for between 9pm on Monday and 10am on Tuesday.

Motorists should exercise caution this morning, particularly on untreated roads, as freezing temperatures have caused widespread ice throughout the road network. Stick to main, gritted roads when possible. Slow down, and increase your braking distance from the vehicle in front. pic.twitter.com/5wbKbw3n8J

— NI Road Policing and Safety (@NIRoadPolicing) January 8, 2024

Forecasters said lowest temperatures overnight would be between -5 and 1 degree in light easterly breezes.

In Northern Ireland, the UK Met Office also forecast bitterly cold temperatures for Monday night.

It said there would be widespread frost and a minimum temperature of -4 degrees.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland urged motorists to exercise caution, particularly on untreated roads.

It said freezing temperatures have caused widespread ice throughout the road network.

In a statement, it said: “Stick to main, gritted roads when possible. Slow down, and increase your braking distance from the vehicle in front.”