Ireland Braces for Extreme Arctic Cold: Snow and Ice Warnings Issued as -8°C Freeze to Hit

Published on November 20, 2025

Met Eireann, Ireland’s national meteorological service, has issued a Yellow Snow and Ice Warning for several counties as an Arctic snap continues to spread across the country. The cold air, expected to reach Ireland by mid-week, has already begun causing disruption, particularly in the western and northern regions, where snow and ice are anticipated to worsen by the end of the week.

The Spread of the Arctic Cold

The Arctic cold mass, which has been gradually making its way southward from the Arctic region, has intensified over the last few days. This cold air mass is expected to cover a large portion of western Europe and eventually spread across the Mediterranean and Northwest Africa by Friday, creating notably colder-than-usual temperatures across the continent. In Ireland, snow warnings have been issued for several counties, including Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Leitrim, and Sligo, with temperatures expected to plunge below freezing.

As the week progresses, conditions are forecasted to remain bitterly cold, and the threat of frost and icy stretches on the roads will continue. Met Eireann has urged residents and travelers to remain cautious, especially when driving or walking during early mornings or late evenings.

Details of the Snow and Ice Warnings

According to the most recent update from Met Eireann, the snow warning remains in effect for the aforementioned counties until 12 PM today. In addition to the snow, there will also be the risk of icy stretches, particularly in the higher elevations and rural areas. The forecaster has strongly advised the public to stay updated with weather conditions as temperatures can fluctuate rapidly, especially during the night when frost is expected to develop.

The impact of the cold weather could lead to challenges on the roads, with black ice being a potential hazard for motorists. Public transport services may also experience delays, and flights could be disrupted due to low visibility and snow accumulations on runways. Travelers are urged to plan their journeys accordingly, allowing extra time for potential delays.

What to Expect in the Coming Days

The weather will remain unsettled as Ireland heads into the weekend, with dry, sunny spells expected during the day but also the likelihood of heavy showers. Thursday is expected to begin with cold but mostly dry conditions across the country, except for some light showers in the Connacht and Ulster regions. As the day progresses, clear skies will break through, though it will remain cold, with temperatures ranging from 3 to 7°C in a northerly breeze.

Thursday night is expected to be very cold with temperatures dropping between -3°C and 0°C, bringing frost and the possibility of icy patches on the roads. As the night wears on, cloud cover will build from the west, and temperatures in the east will remain the coldest. The low temperatures combined with light winds will make it feel even colder.

By Friday, the weather will shift again, with clouds building early in the day and outbreaks of rain expected along Atlantic coastal counties. The rain will become heavier in the west and gradually spread inland as the day goes on. Winds will shift to a southwesterly direction, with temperatures expected to rise slightly to between 5°C and 9°C.

However, Friday night will see heavy rain and drizzle sweeping through much of the country, particularly along the Atlantic and western regions. Temperatures will drop again, with a range of 1°C to 4°C during the night. The rainfall will be particularly heavy along coastal areas, and travelers should prepare for the possibility of disruptions due to the combination of heavy rain and freezing temperatures.

Weather Impact on Daily Life

The Arctic cold front is already beginning to cause significant disruptions to daily life across Ireland. Road conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly, with black ice becoming a serious hazard for morning and evening commuters. Pedestrians should also take caution when walking on icy pavements. Met Eireann has advised that vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, take extra precautions to avoid adverse weather effects.

Schools and local authorities may take additional measures to ensure safety, including adjusting schedules or providing resources to clear icy paths. Motorists have been advised to check their vehicles and drive with caution, reducing speed and increasing following distance to prevent accidents caused by icy conditions. Drivers should also ensure their vehicles are prepared for winter conditions, including checking that tires are properly inflated and windshield wipers are functioning.

Long-Term Weather Forecast for Ireland

Looking further ahead, Met Eireann has indicated that cold and unsettled conditions will continue into the weekend and potentially beyond, with snow expected in some areas. Arctic air will persist throughout much of the western European region, and it is likely that Ireland will remain under the influence of this cold front well into the coming week.

The Arctic snap could lead to further snowfall in regions already experiencing disruptions, with frosty conditions becoming more widespread. Agricultural communities may also be impacted by the extreme cold, particularly in areas where early crops or sensitive plants could be affected by the sudden temperature drops.

Conclusion: Staying Prepared for the Cold Snap

The Arctic blast currently affecting Ireland has brought with it significant challenges, including snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Residents have been urged to take necessary precautions as the conditions are expected to remain hazardous over the next few days. Travelers, motorists, and the general public should stay updated with weather warnings and forecasts to mitigate any disruptions caused by the extreme conditions.

As temperatures continue to drop and more snow and rain are expected, Met Eireann will issue further updates to keep the public informed. By remaining vigilant and prepared for the worsening conditions, individuals can help ensure their safety during this significant Arctic cold front.