Arctic chill to sweep across Northern Ireland this week
Snow, ice and overnight frosts for some across NI & the UK
Widespread cold conditions are on the way this week across Northern Ireland, forecasters warn.
As Storm Claudia clears, conditions turn wintry in the north, as a frontal system in.
By Wednesday, the UK will be firmly under the colder Arctic airmass, with a strong and very cold northerly flow making temperatures feel even colder.
Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree explained: “Wednesday to Friday will be the coldest part of the week, and this period has the greatest potential for impactful weather, with multiple warnings in place. Overnight, temperatures could get down to minus ten, with a significant wind chill from the strong northerly wind making things feel even colder.
“Wintry snow showers are expected to extend south through Wednesday and into Thursday, mainly affecting north facing coastal areas. Snow accumulations are possible, including 2-5 cm to some low-lying areas in the north and east where showers are frequent.
"On hills in parts of Northern Ireland, the northeast of England and Scotland, 5-10 cm of snow could fall and accumulations of 15-20cm are possible above 300 metres in parts of northeastern England and Scotland.
“Although many places will see plenty of sunshine, daytime temperatures will be well-below average, with a widespread frost setting in during the evening, especially in sheltered areas.
“With sub-zero temperatures in the first ‘cold snap’ of the year, updates to the current warnings are possible, so its important people keep up to date with the forecast.”
Northern Ireland's five-day forecast 👇
Today: The day will stay dry with bright or sunny spells for most but it will be cloudy in the northwest. Cloud will spread south from the afternoon. Maximum temperature 8 °C.
Tonight: The night will be cloudy with the evening dry. Outbreaks of rain will then spread steadily east from around midnight. Minimum temperature 1 °C.
Tuesday: The wind will strengthen from Tuesday morning with the day staying cloudy as early rain turns showery later. Maximum temperature 8 °C.
Outlook for Wednesday to Friday: Wednesday will be cold and windy with scattered wintry showers. The showers clear as the wind eases Thursday. After a dry morning, cloud and outbreaks of rain spread east Friday.
Read more:
Investigations continue at scene of fatal Dundalk crash
The Shamrocks announce SSE Arena show on 2026 tour
Katy Perry to return to Ireland next summer for HUGE outdoor show