The Met Office issued a weather warning for snow covering parts of Northern Ireland on Wednesday. A yellow warning for snow and ice came into effect across the country from 6pm last night until 10am on Wednesday, November 20. The forecaster said that wintry showers would develop during Tuesday evening and continue overnight into Wednesday morning. Apart from the north coast, lying snow is possible, with 1 to 2cm in places and up to 5cm over higher ground. Ice will readily form on untreated surfaces. As a result, the police issued a warning to drivers to take care on the roads this morning. A PSNI spokesperson advised drivers to take extra care on the roads, especially on those which may not have been gritted. They also urged drivers to clear their windscreen of ice and snow before setting off, slow down, and increase the distance between themselves and the car ahead.
The weather conditions have caused some disruptions in the region. Due to poor weather conditions, the 212 bus from Derry to Belfast at 09:00 was cancelled. Snow and ice were reported on hills and roads above Carrickfergus, making driving conditions challenging. In Ballymena, it started to snow/sleet, creating treacherous conditions for both walking and driving. The cold weather has been particularly challenging for some individuals, as charities like the Alzheimer’s Society warned that people with dementia may struggle to adjust to colder temperatures and may not be able to communicate that they are cold. Asthma + Lung UK also cautioned those with lung conditions to be extra careful during cold weather, as it can trigger potentially life-threatening asthma attacks or flare-ups.
Across the island, Met Éireann has issued a similar weather warning for low temperatures and ice across the Republic of Ireland. The warning began at 8pm on Tuesday and lasts until 10am on Wednesday. The forecaster warned of hazardous conditions on roads and paths, particularly in untreated areas, with a risk of travel disruption.
As the cold weather persists, the Roads Service has advised road users to exercise caution when traveling, particularly on untreated roads. Some school services in the Magherafelt and Cookstown areas have been disrupted due to the weather and road conditions. Delays were reported on the Glenshane Pass, affecting the 212 services. The weather outlook from the Met Office predicts another bright day with sunny spells and occasional wintry showers, particularly over northern counties. It will feel cold in the brisk northwesterly winds, with a maximum temperature of 4 °C. Tonight is expected to be dry and clear, allowing a hard frost to develop, with wintry showers continuing near the North Coast.
