Cold snap to hit country with lows of -3C forecast

Met Éireann has issued a warning about an upcoming cold snap, with temperatures expected to plummet to -3C in various regions overnight. Tonight, the forecaster predicts widespread frost and possible icy patches across most areas, which will be dry and clear. However, cloud cover will increase in the southwest, bringing the chance of isolated showers, especially in the morning and spreading northeastwards throughout the day.

Wind conditions are also forecasted to be strong, with gusts ranging from fresh to near gale force, primarily from the south-easterly direction.

The unsettled weather is set to persist into the following week, with showery conditions dominating, interspersed with brief periods of sunshine as temperatures remain slightly below the average. In addition to the cold snap, Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rain warning for Cork and Waterford, effective from 3 PM tomorrow until midnight. This warning is due to potential heavy rain that could cause localized flooding, along with difficult travel conditions and reduced visibility.