Forecasters say cold snap will last all week

Ireland is bracing itself for a week-long cold snap as freezing temperatures and wintry showers affecting many parts of the country.

The east of the country is already experiencing snowfall, with further snow showers, sleet and hail forecast for the east and some midlands areas, although the west will experience milder weather.

Clearer weather is expected to spread from the northeast later today, but it will remain cold with temperatures only expected to reach three to eight degrees. Met Éireann is also warning of the danger of sharp frost and icy patches as temperatures drop overnight.

The cold weather is expected to continue until the weekend, with temperatures only reaching seven degrees at best throughout the week. Wintry showers coming in from the Irish Sea will mostly affect the east coast, with many other places remaining dry.

AA Roadwatch is urging motorists to take care in the hazardous conditions, particularly when driving overnight. Motorists are advised to allow extra time for journeys and watch out for black ice.