NI Weather: Met Office warns of snow and ice risk as temperatures plunge
Wintry conditions threaten to cause delays and disruption for motorists ❄️🌨️☃️🏔️
Last updated 29th Jan 2019
A weather warning for snow and ice has been issued for a large swathe of Northern Ireland today with sub-zero temperatures and wintry showers forecast.
With temperatures expected to fall to as low as -6°C in rural areas tonight, forecasters say there is likely to be a "widespread" frost on Wednesday morning with a yellow "be aware" ice warning in place across all counties.
According to the Met Office; "Scattered sleet and snow showers will continue through Tuesday, these heaviest and most frequent in northern and western counties leading to accumulations on hills."
Up to 3cm (1 inch) of snow could fall to lower levels, mostly in the north west of the province, with 5cm (2 inches) possible over higher ground.
"Some roads and railways are likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services."
"Expect ice on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths."
The warning comes into effect from 15:00 Tuesday lasting through until 11:00 Wednesday.
There could be additional disruption on Thursday as a second Atlantic low pressure system develops tracking east bringing with it further sleet and snow showers. Details remain very uncertain at this stage.
NORTHERN IRELAND FOUR DAY FORECAST
Tuesday - Rain turning to sleet and snow in the afternoon, accumulations likely on hills and to lower levels in the north west. Brightening up with a further snow showers in the evening. High 3°C / Low -2°C
Wednesday - Icy start. Mixture of sunny spells and occasional sleet or snow showers. High 4°C / Low -2°C
Thursday - Staying rather cold but mainly dry, perhaps a few coastal showers at times. High 4°C / Low 1°C
Friday - Staying mainly overcast, feeling cold. High 6°C / Low 3°C