DON’T GO PUTTING your winter coat and gloves into storage any time soon – the snow is going to stick around for another little while yet.

According to the Irish Weather Network, snow showers will continue to affect many parts of eastern half of the country this evening, with some drifting into Connaught and east Munster.

We can expect most of the showers to be light to moderate, but winds will be strong east to northeast. They will decrease overland, though they will continue to be “fresh and gusty” in the southeast and especially in any showers, says IWN.

What can we expect tonight?

According to IWN, we will see ice begin tonight, as snow and snow melt freezes over. We can expect lowest overnight temps of -1C to -5 or possibly -6C, with it being coldest in the midlands.

Showers of hail, sleet and snow will now move onto the north and northwest coast tonight, while any remaining showers in the southeast die away.

Tomorrow, there will be more cold, fresh northerly winds and wintry showers, which will affect much of the northern half of the island. Top temperatures will be around 4 or 5C. But we will see another very cold night, as air temperatures fall below freezing.

Careful on those roads, as we will see a sharp frost forming and icy stretches on untreated roads.

Road safety

With all this in mind, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has given its advice for road users in snow and icy conditions.

Freezing Temperatures

• Watch out for ‘black ice’. If the road looks polished or glossy it could be black ice. You will often find it in sheltered / shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls.

• If driving in snow:Manoeuvre gently, slow down and leave extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. Too much steering is bad and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill.

• Falling snow, fog, rain, or hail reduces visibility. Do not hang on to the tail lights of the vehicle in front of you as it can give a false  sense of security. When you slow down, use your brakes – the lights will warn drivers behind you.

• Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space.

Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to:

• Be seen. Wear bright clothing with reflective armbands or a reflective belt.
• Take extra care when near traffic or crossing the road in extremely windy conditions.
• While walking on footpaths and in public places, or entering and exiting your car or truck, DO NOT underestimate the danger of ice.
• If walking or cycling in fog, make sure you are clearly visible by carrying a torch and wearing reflective clothing. Stay well in off the road where there is no footpath when vehicles are approaching.

Road users are advised to check local and National weather forecasts before setting out on a journey, such as IWN or Met Eireann’s website.

More information can be found on the RSA’s website.

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