National Emergency Coordination Group Responds to Severe Cold Snap
Dublin: The National Emergency Coordination Group (NECG) convened again to address the ongoing extreme cold weather conditions affecting Ireland. A Status Orange Alert for low temperatures and ice, in effect since 6 PM yesterday, continues for Leinster, Munster, Connacht, Cavan, and Monaghan until 11 AM today.
Weather Forecast and Impacts
This morning, the nation remains gripped by freezing conditions, with temperatures ranging between -1°C and -4°C during the day. Cloud cover is expected in southern areas, including Cork, with light rain anticipated along the south coast. The Met Office has warned that the extreme cold will persist, with temperatures likely to plunge further overnight.
Keith Leonard, Director of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, emphasised that widespread snow and ice continue to pose significant challenges. He urged road users to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, and allow extra time for journeys. Even on treated roads, driving conditions remain hazardous.
Areas Worst Affected
The regions most severely impacted include North Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, the Midlands, and the West Coast. Leonard stated that power and water supplies, disrupted by the extreme weather, are expected to be restored fully by today.
The ESB Networks reported that approximately 5,000 homes, farms, and businesses were without power overnight, but restoration efforts are underway. Water services to around 4,500 customers in Tipperary, Limerick, and Kerry have been largely reinstated, with full restoration expected by this morning.
Travel Disruptions and Support Services
Severe weather has caused significant travel disruptions, with some bus services cancelled and schools in certain areas remaining closed. The Sally Gap in Wicklow has been deemed impassable, and the Mountain Rescue Team has advised against attempting to navigate the area.
To assist affected communities, hotels such as the Longcourt Hotel in Newcastle West, Leens Hotel in Abbeyfeale, Charleville Park Hotel in Cork, and the Horse and Jockey Hotel in Thurles are offering hot meals and charging stations for phones.
The NECG commended the coordinated efforts of Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the Defence Forces, local authorities, the National Transport Authority, and voluntary organisations, including the Irish Farmers Association (IFA), in managing travel disruptions and other challenges.
Temperature Highlights
Last night, temperatures fell to -5.7°C at Casement Aerodrome in Dublin, Gurteen in Tipperary, and Ballyhaise in Cavan. Daytime temperatures were equally frigid, with a low of -6.1°C recorded in Mullingar, Westmeath.
Meteorologists have warned of further drops in temperature tonight, with conditions expected to worsen. Black ice and frozen snow on roads remain hazardous for motorists, prompting officials to urge caution.
Public Safety Guidance
Officials have reminded the public to keep phones charged in case of emergencies and to remain vigilant, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable members of the community. Travellers are advised to avoid unnecessary journeys and prepare for potential delays or disruptions.
In Northern Ireland, a Yellow Alert for counties Antrim, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry remains in place until 11 AM today.
The NECG has reiterated its commitment to mitigating the impacts of this severe weather and ensuring public safety through continued coordination with local authorities and emergency services.
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