Cold snap gives Ireland first taste of winter

Ireland experienced its first taste of winter this morning as temperatures plunged overnight accompanied by a biting wind.

Met Éireann has forecast wintery showers, particularly for the northern half of the country, with some falling as snow on high ground. Temperatures are forecast to range from 4 to 8 degrees today, with a severe frost tonight.

In Britain there were significant falls of snow, especially in Scotland. Aberdeen, the Highlands, the Borders and Perth were the worst affected with a light covering of snow on most roads.

Temperatures are expected to rise in the next few days.

The cold snap follows the warmest October in Ireland for over 30 years when temperatures for the month averaged 12 to 13 degrees.