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Children’s Health Ireland accepted €30,000 from concession holder for staff Christmas party – The Irish Times

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Children’s Health Ireland and Public Funds: A Growing Concern

The Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) group is facing renewed scrutiny following revelations presented to the Dáil Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Concerns have been raised regarding a €30,000 payment received from a concession holder towards a staff Christmas party in 2022. The Comptroller and Auditor General, Seamus McCarthy, flagged the payment after his staff identified the funds within a CHI-controlled account.

Kickbacks and Transparency

The payment prompted questions about potential impropriety, with Fine Gael TD Joe Neville suggesting it could be perceived as a “kind of kickback.” While CHI’s board ultimately decided to return the money after being alerted by the Comptroller’s staff, the initial acceptance of the funds has fueled debate about transparency and financial governance within the organization. The PAC has agreed to seek a formal explanation from CHI regarding the matter.

Ireland’s Climate Reality: Intensifying Risks and Adaptation

Alongside the financial concerns at CHI, the PAC also heard stark warnings about the escalating impacts of climate change in Ireland. Met Éireann, the national weather forecasting service, emphasized that climate change is no longer a future threat but a “present-day reality” reshaping weather patterns and intensifying extreme events.

Flooding and Infrastructure Challenges

The Office of Public Works (OPW) echoed these concerns, highlighting the increasing risk of flooding. Chairman John Conlon stated that climate change, including rising sea levels and increased rainfall, is projected to significantly impact flood risk across the country. The OPW has already invested €580 million in 56 completed flood-relief schemes, protecting over 13,580 properties and providing an estimated €2 billion in economic benefits. Currently, 100 more schemes are in the design, planning, or construction phases – a threefold increase since 2018.

Record-Breaking Weather and Warming Trends

Met Éireann data reveals a clear warming trend, with 2025 being Ireland’s second warmest year on record. The period from 2022 to 2025 represents the warmest four-year period in the national record, dating back to 1900. Seven of Ireland’s warmest years have occurred since 2005. The past year demonstrated increasing climate variability, beginning with significant snowfall, followed by Storm Éowyn – which brought the strongest winds ever recorded in Ireland – the warmest summer on record, and the fourth wettest autumn.

January rainfall reached 123% of the long-term national average, and Dublin Airport recorded its wettest February on record, at 255% of its long-term average.

Global Context and Future Projections

Globally, 2025 was the third warmest year on record, following 2024 and 2023, with average temperatures approximately 1.4 degrees above pre-industrial levels. This was characterized by exceptional ocean heat, continued sea-level rise, and widespread extreme weather events, including intense rainfall, record temperatures, and wildfires.

FAQ

Q: What is Children’s Health Ireland?
A: Children’s Health Ireland is the organization responsible for providing hospital services to children in Dublin.

Q: What is Met Éireann?
A: Met Éireann is Ireland’s national meteorological service.

Q: How much funding has the OPW committed to flood relief?
A: The Government has committed €1.3 billion to flood relief under the National Development Plan up to 2030.

Q: What are the projected impacts of climate change on Ireland?
A: Rising sea levels, increased rainfall in winter, more heavy rain days, and more intense storms are all projected impacts of climate change in Ireland.

Did you know? Ireland’s climate is warming in line with global trends, and 2025 was the second warmest year on record for the country.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about climate change impacts in your area by visiting the Met Éireann website and following local news sources.

Want to learn more about climate resilience and sustainable practices? Explore our articles on environmental policy and community adaptation strategies.

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New Met Eireann localised alert system to replace county-wide weather warnings

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Ireland’s national meteorological service, Met Éireann, is developing a new, more localized weather alert system set to roll out later in 2026. The new system will replace current county-wide warnings with alerts based on sub-county zones.

More Precise Warnings on the Horizon

The forecaster is creating a polygon-based system designed to issue warnings for specific areas, rather than entire counties. Met Éireann stated this enhanced localization will provide “clearer direction to those at risk and support more targeted emergency preparedness.”

Did You Know? Met Éireann noted that its current warning system is “well established, robust and aligned with international best practice.”

The change was welcomed by Laois Fine Gael TD Willie Aird, who argued the current system is often too broad for Ireland’s varied landscape. He explained that Status Orange or Red alerts are sometimes issued for entire counties when severe conditions are only present in specific areas, leading to unnecessary disruption, including school closures.

Deputy Aird cited January 2025’s heavy snowfall as an example, noting that while high ground areas of Laois, Kilkenny, Clare, Kerry, Limerick, and Tipperary experienced red alert conditions, lower-lying areas within those counties saw mostly rain. He stated, “A county-wide warning simply does not reflect that reality.”

Expert Insight: Moving to a more granular warning system is a logical step for any national meteorological service. Broad-brush warnings can erode public trust if they frequently don’t align with local conditions, leading to alert fatigue and potentially less serious responses when genuine threats emerge.

The new system, according to Deputy Aird, will “bring clarity” and “end the unnecessary disruption that blanket county warnings can cause” while still providing essential safety information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is changing with Met Éireann’s weather warnings?

Met Éireann is moving from county-wide weather warnings to a more localized system based on sub-county zones using a polygon-based approach.

When will the new system be implemented?

The aim is to have the new system in place later in 2026.

Why is this change being made?

The current system is considered too broad for Ireland’s varied landscape, sometimes resulting in warnings that don’t accurately reflect the risk in all areas of a county.

As Ireland prepares for a more localized approach to weather warnings, will this increased precision lead to greater public preparedness and a more effective response to severe weather events?

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Met Éireann forecasts ‘relentless’ rainfall in parts of the country with warnings for snow, wind and rain – The Irish Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A widespread weather system is bringing significant rainfall, wind, and potential snow to Ireland and parts of Northern Ireland on Wednesday. Met Éireann has issued a series of yellow warnings for 18 counties, with some warnings extending through the evening.

Widespread Warnings in Effect

A yellow rain warning is currently in effect for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Cork, Tipperary, and Waterford, beginning at 11pm Tuesday and lasting until 11pm Wednesday. Separately, a yellow wind warning is in place for Wexford, Wicklow, Dublin, Meath, and Louth until 1pm today. Donegal is under a yellow rain/snow warning until 2pm. A yellow rain and snow warning has been issued for Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry in Northern Ireland, valid until 8pm this evening.

Increased Rainfall and Flood Risk

Meteorologist Rebecca Cantwell of Met Éireann has warned of a high risk of flooding, particularly in eastern areas, due to persistent rainfall throughout the day. The combination of rain, high winds, and high tides along the east coast increases the potential for tidal flooding. Conditions are expected to be particularly challenging around the Comeragh and Wicklow Mountains due to increased runoff.

Did You Grasp? Valentia Observatory in County Kerry has experienced rain every day for the past 47 days, from January 1st to February 16th.

Rain in the northwest may turn to sleet or snow as a cold air front moves through. The eastern half of the country is expected to receive the highest rainfall, with between 30 and 50mm anticipated in counties under a yellow rain warning. The Phoenix Park in Dublin has already received 114mm of rainfall in the past two weeks – 450% of its average for the first half of February.

Broader European Impacts

The unsettled weather is not limited to Ireland. France has issued red flood alerts in three departments following Storm Nils, with floodwaters inundating homes and villages. At least 16 people have died and thousands have been displaced in Portugal and Spain due to recent storms.

Expert Insight: The convergence of saturated ground, high river levels, and incoming rainfall creates a significant flood risk. The combination of high tides and strong winds further exacerbates the potential for coastal flooding, requiring vigilance and preparedness from residents in affected areas.

The National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management has convened a meeting with local authorities and other agencies to prepare for the increased flooding risk. They advise the public to monitor forecasts, avoid driving through floodwater, and remain aware of potential hazards such as fallen power lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counties are under a yellow rain warning?

A yellow rain warning is in place for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Cork, Tipperary and Waterford until 11pm on Wednesday.

What is the forecast for the rest of the week?

The outlook remains unsettled until the weekend, when temperatures could rise from 10 to 13 degrees.

What is the risk of flooding?

There is a high risk of river and coastal flooding, particularly in eastern areas, due to the combination of heavy rain, high winds, and high tides.

As conditions continue to evolve, will residents in affected areas heed the warnings and capture necessary precautions?

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Met Éireann issues rain warnings for several counties amid flooding risks for southeast and Dublin – The Irish Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Multiple counties across Ireland are bracing for significant rainfall and potential flooding as Met Éireann has issued warnings, including orange alerts for Waterford and Wicklow. The orange warning for these southeastern counties is in effect from 3:00 AM Thursday through 3:00 AM Friday.

Rising River Levels and Flood Risk

The warnings indicate “spells of very heavy rain falling on already saturated ground, combined with high river levels and high tides.” Localized and river flooding, along with difficult travel conditions, are anticipated in Waterford and Wicklow. A yellow rain warning is also in place for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Louth, Wexford, Monaghan, and Tipperary for the same period, with similar risks of flooding and travel disruption.

Did You Know? The rivers Liffey, Nore, Barrow, and Slaney already have very high water levels, and these are expected to rise further throughout Wednesday and Thursday.

Wicklow and Waterford County Councils are advising residents to exercise extreme caution. In Wicklow, several roads are already closed due to recent storm damage, and further closures are possible. Motorists are urged to allow extra travel time, reduce speed, and avoid closed roads.

Coastal Concerns and Preparations

Dublin City Council is closely monitoring river levels and coastal conditions. Car parks at Sandymount and Clontarf remain closed to prevent wave overtopping, and the cycle lane at Clontarf, the Eden Quay boardwalk, and flood gates along the River Dodder are also closed as a precaution.

Expert Insight: The combination of saturated ground, high river levels, and high tides creates a particularly dangerous scenario. Even moderate rainfall can now lead to significant flooding, and the delayed response of rivers means the risk may persist even after the rain stops.

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group met Tuesday to assess the situation and prepare for potential flooding. All relevant agencies and local authorities are on alert and working to mitigate the impact of the expected rainfall.

Looking Ahead

While no weather warnings are currently in effect beyond the advisories, Met Éireann anticipates continued spells of heavy and persistent rainfall throughout the week, particularly in southern and eastern counties. Tánaiste Simon Harris stated that senior Ministers discussed interim measures to lessen the impact and that further engagement on flood warning systems is planned next week.

Meteorologist Andrew Doran-Sherlock emphasized the importance of monitoring both weather conditions and river gauge data, advising residents to consult local authorities for guidance specific to their areas. It is possible that conditions could worsen before easing, with the heaviest rain expected through Friday. While Sunday is currently forecast to be drier, low pressure systems are expected to continue dominating the weather pattern into next week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counties are under an orange rainfall warning?

Waterford and Wicklow are currently under a status orange rainfall warning, in effect from 3:00 AM Thursday to 3:00 AM Friday.

Where can I find real-time river level data?

The OPW maintains waterlevel.ie, which provides real-time data on river levels from a network of hydrometric stations.

What is being done to prepare for potential flooding?

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group has met to assess the situation, and all relevant departments, agencies, and local authorities are on alert and working to put in place measures to mitigate the impact of further rain.

As communities prepare for potential disruption, what steps will you take to stay informed and ensure your safety during this period of heightened flood risk?

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Met Éireann issues weather warnings for seven counties; more flooding likely – The Irish Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Communities across Ireland are bracing for further heavy rainfall on Friday, with many areas already saturated from flooding earlier this week. Met Éireann has extended a yellow rainfall warning to include Co Louth, adding to the existing warning for Carlow, Dublin, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, and Waterford. The warning is in effect from midday Friday until midnight.

Increased Flood Risk

The national forecaster indicates a high likelihood of localized and river flooding as the already-soaked ground struggles to absorb more water. Meteorologist Linda Hughes of Met Éireann explained that “there’s been no break since Storm Chandra and another spell of rain is coming in,” exacerbating existing issues with high river levels.

Did You Know? A yellow rain warning for Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Derry has been in effect since midnight and will remain in place until 6pm on Friday.

Travel Disruptions Expected

Gardaí are preparing for a challenging bank holiday weekend, with increased checkpoints planned across the country. Garda Superintendent Liam Geraghty urged all road users to exercise extreme caution and reduce speed. “This weekend is going to be very, very challenging, right across the country,” he stated, noting the presence of “muck” and debris on roadways due to the wet conditions.

Superintendent Geraghty specifically advised against driving through flooded roads, warning of potential vehicle damage and the risk of requiring emergency rescue. He also cautioned against distracted driving, citing examples of drivers engaging in activities other than focusing on the road.

Expert Insight: The increased Garda presence and Superintendent Geraghty’s warnings underscore the serious safety concerns associated with driving in these conditions. Reducing speed and eliminating distractions are critical steps drivers can take to mitigate risk and ensure their own safety, as well as the safety of others.

Potential Future Impacts

If the predicted rainfall materializes, we could see further disruption to travel networks, particularly in the counties under warning. Localized flooding may impact access to certain areas, and emergency services may be stretched responding to incidents. Should rainfall exceed forecasts, the severity of these impacts could increase. Continued monitoring of Met Éireann updates is advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counties are under a yellow rain warning?

Carlow, Dublin, Kilkenny, Louth, Wexford, Wicklow, and Waterford are currently under a status yellow rain warning from midday Friday until midnight.

What is Gardaí’s advice for drivers?

Gardaí are advising all road users to take extra care, slow down, and avoid driving through roads blocked with water. They are also warning against using mobile phones or engaging in other distracting activities while driving.

What is the expected rainfall amount?

30 or 40 millimeters of rain are expected in the warned counties, with potentially higher accumulations in mountainous areas.

As communities prepare for another round of heavy rainfall, what steps will you take to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you?

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Storm Ingrid alert triggered as Ireland enters Met Eireann weather warning zone

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Storm Ingrid’s Wake: A Glimpse into Ireland’s Increasingly Volatile Weather Future

Ireland is bracing for the remnants of Storm Ingrid, a system named by the Portuguese Met Service (IPMA), set to bring wet and windy conditions this weekend. While weakened, Ingrid serves as a stark reminder of the escalating frequency and intensity of storms impacting the island – a trend deeply connected to broader climate shifts.

The Changing Face of Atlantic Storms

The Atlantic storm track is shifting, and Ireland finds itself increasingly in the firing line. Historically, storms tended to track further north. Now, we’re seeing more systems dipping south, bringing greater rainfall and stronger winds. This isn’t simply about individual storms like Ingrid; it’s about a systemic change. Data from Met Éireann shows a clear increase in the number of named storms affecting Ireland over the past two decades. Between 2015 and 2023, Ireland experienced a significantly higher frequency of impactful storms compared to the previous decade.

Alan O’Reilly of Carlow Weather highlights the importance of understanding these shifts. His analysis, shared on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizes that even weakened storms can pose significant risks, particularly flooding. The increased rainfall, even from diminished systems, saturates the ground, making it more vulnerable to flooding events.

Beyond Wind and Rain: The Threat of Wintry Conditions

The forecast isn’t limited to just wind and rain. Meteorologist Cathal Noonan of Ireland’s Weather Channel suggests the possibility of gale-force winds along the coast and, surprisingly, even snow next week. This highlights the increasing unpredictability of Irish weather. The jet stream, a high-altitude air current, is becoming more erratic, leading to more frequent and abrupt changes in temperature and precipitation.

Did you know? The jet stream’s behavior is directly influenced by the temperature difference between the Arctic and the mid-latitudes. As the Arctic warms at a faster rate than other regions (a phenomenon known as Arctic amplification), the jet stream becomes weaker and more wavy, leading to more extreme weather events.

Met Éireann’s Outlook: A Pattern of Unsettled Weather

Met Éireann’s national outlook confirms a continuation of this unsettled pattern. The forecast points to ongoing low pressure systems dominating the weather, bringing spells of rain, wind, and limited sunshine. Temperatures are expected to remain relatively mild, but the consistent rainfall poses a significant risk of flooding. The outlook for Monday and Tuesday suggests a continuation of wet conditions, with potential for heavier rainfall and stronger winds, particularly on the eastern and southeastern coasts.

The Economic Impact of Increased Storm Activity

The consequences of these increasingly frequent and intense storms extend far beyond inconvenience. The economic impact is substantial. Flooding causes damage to infrastructure, disrupts businesses, and impacts agricultural yields. Insurance claims related to storm damage have risen dramatically in recent years, placing a strain on the insurance industry and increasing premiums for homeowners and businesses. A 2022 report by the European Environment Agency estimated that climate-related disasters cost Europe over €150 billion in 2021 alone.

Adapting to a New Normal: Resilience and Preparedness

Ireland needs to prioritize adaptation measures to build resilience to these changing weather patterns. This includes investing in improved flood defenses, upgrading infrastructure to withstand stronger winds, and developing more robust early warning systems. Community-level preparedness is also crucial. Local authorities should work with residents to develop emergency plans and ensure that vulnerable populations have access to support during extreme weather events.

Pro Tip: Regularly check Met Éireann’s website and app for the latest weather forecasts and warnings. Sign up for alerts to receive timely notifications about severe weather conditions in your area.

The Role of Climate Action

While adaptation is essential, it’s not enough. Addressing the root cause of the problem – climate change – is paramount. Ireland must accelerate its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. This requires a concerted effort across all sectors, including energy, transportation, agriculture, and industry. The government’s Climate Action Plan sets ambitious targets for emissions reduction, but achieving these targets will require significant investment and policy changes.

FAQ: Storm Ingrid and Ireland’s Weather Future

  • Will Storm Ingrid cause major disruption? While weakened, Ingrid is expected to bring wet and windy conditions, with a risk of flooding, particularly in the southeast.
  • Is Ireland experiencing more storms? Yes, data shows an increase in the frequency of impactful storms affecting Ireland in recent decades.
  • Could we see snow? There is a possibility of snow in parts of Ulster next week, but it’s not yet certain.
  • What can I do to prepare for severe weather? Check Met Éireann’s forecasts, sign up for alerts, and develop an emergency plan.
  • What is Arctic amplification? It’s the phenomenon where the Arctic warms at a faster rate than other regions, leading to a weaker and more wavy jet stream.

Reader Question: “I live in a coastal area. What can I do to protect my property from storm damage?” Consider investing in flood barriers, securing loose objects, and ensuring your property is adequately insured.

The arrival of Storm Ingrid is a timely reminder that Ireland’s weather is changing. By understanding these changes, investing in adaptation measures, and taking decisive climate action, we can build a more resilient future for our communities.

Explore further: Read Met Éireann’s latest climate change reports here and learn more about flood preparedness on the Office of Public Works website here.

Join the conversation: What are your experiences with recent storms? Share your thoughts and preparedness tips in the comments below!

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Ireland weather alert as strange phenomenon arrives tonight with 4 day warning issued

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Ireland is bracing for an unusual weather event: a four-day period of dense fog beginning tonight. Met Eireann, the national meteorological service, has warned that the conditions are expected to persist through Tuesday, impacting travel and daily life across the country.

Rare Atmospheric Conditions

The forecast comes shortly after Ireland experienced its first cold snap of the year, followed by a brief period of milder, wetter weather. However, temperatures are once again forecast to dip, with daytime highs struggling to reach double digits and overnight lows potentially reaching -2C. The current setup, according to Met Eireann, is creating ideal conditions for fog formation: light southeasterly or variable breezes combined with calm, clear nights.

Did You Know? Met Eireann has issued a detailed day-by-day forecast, outlining expected temperatures ranging from -2C to 9C throughout the four-day fog event.

Detailed Forecast

Met Eireann’s forecast indicates largely dry conditions Saturday night with potential showers in the east and southeast, and lowest temperatures between -1C and 4C. Fog is expected to develop in light breezes. Sunday will see fog clearing in the morning, with bright spells and occasional showers, followed by rain developing in the west and southwest. Temperatures will reach 5C to 9C.

Cloudy conditions are predicted for Sunday night, with rain extending across the country and temperatures between 1C and 5C. Monday will begin cloudy with rain and drizzle, becoming drier in the afternoon. Fog is expected to develop Monday night with temperatures dropping to between -2C and 3C, before rain returns in the southwest. Tuesday will see fog clearing as breezy conditions and outbreaks of rain move in from the southwest, with temperatures of 6C to 9C. Wednesday is currently forecast to be breezy and windy with outbreaks of heavy rain and temperatures of 7C to 10C.

Expert Insight: Prolonged fog events like this can significantly disrupt transportation networks and pose risks to public safety. The combination of low temperatures and moisture creates hazardous driving conditions, and it’s crucial for individuals to exercise caution and heed any travel advisories issued by local authorities.

The persistence of this fog pattern is described as rare by Met Eireann, making careful planning for the week ahead particularly important.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this fog expected to last?

Met Eireann currently forecasts the dense fog to persist across Ireland from Saturday through Tuesday.

What temperatures can we expect during the fog event?

Daytime temperatures are expected to struggle to reach double digits, while overnight lows could drop as low as -2C.

Will the entire country be affected by the fog?

While the forecast indicates the fog will be widespread, Met Eireann notes that some areas may experience clearer conditions at times, particularly during daylight hours on Sunday.

How will you adjust your plans to account for the potential disruptions caused by this extended period of fog?

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Yellow warning for 11 counties as Met Éireann forecasts strong winds – The Irish Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A status yellow wind warning is in effect for eleven counties as of 2pm today, according to the latest forecast. The warning covers Clare, Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, Wexford, and Wicklow, and is set to expire at 10pm this evening.

Weather Alerts Expand Across Ireland

In addition to the wind warning, separate alerts are also in place for Northern Ireland. A status yellow wind warning, active since midnight, remains in effect for Antrim, Tyrone, and Derry until midday Monday, with the warning for Down expiring at 9pm tonight. A status yellow rain warning for Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry is also current, lasting until 9pm tonight.

Did You Know? The current wind warning for eleven counties is scheduled to expire at 10pm tonight.

Today will see a shift in weather conditions, beginning with cloudy skies and patchy rain, along with mist and coastal fog. Rain from the southwest is expected to spread northeast throughout the late morning and afternoon, becoming heavy at times. Temperatures will be milder than recent days, reaching highs of 10 to 13 degrees.

Potential for Disruptions

The forecaster warns that the conditions may make travel difficult. Potential impacts include wave overtopping in coastal areas, displaced loose objects, and fallen trees or branches. The afternoon will bring very windy conditions, with strong and gusty south to southwest winds, and gales or strong gales along the coast.

Expert Insight: Warnings like these are crucial for public safety, particularly in coastal regions. The combination of strong winds and potential wave action could create hazardous conditions for those living near the sea or engaged in maritime activities.

Tonight, strong and gusty south to southwest winds are expected, particularly in the northwest, before moderating overnight. A mix of clear spells and scattered showers is anticipated for most areas, though a spell of rain may affect the northwest early in the night. Lowest temperatures will range from five to nine degrees.

Tomorrow is forecast to bring widespread showers and occasional sunshine, with temperatures between seven and eleven degrees. Moderate to fresh southwesterly winds are expected, easing to light or moderate by evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counties are under the status yellow wind warning?

The status yellow wind warning covers Clare, Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, Wexford, and Wicklow.

When will the wind warning expire?

The status yellow wind warning for the eleven counties will expire at 10pm tonight.

What are the expected high temperatures today?

Today’s highest temperatures are expected to be between 10 and 13 degrees.

How will you prepare for the changing weather conditions in your area?

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Met Éireann forecasts snow and ice as weather warnings issued for all of Ireland this weekend – The Irish Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A series of status yellow weather warnings are in effect across Ireland this weekend as temperatures are forecast to plummet to as low as -4 degrees, according to Met Éireann.

Widespread Warnings Issued

The recent mild weather is expected to give way to significantly colder conditions, with wintry showers potentially leading to snow accumulations and hazardous travel conditions. A status yellow snow and ice warning is currently in place for Donegal, beginning at 8pm Friday and lasting until 11am Saturday.

Did You Know? A status yellow warning for Northern Ireland, issued by the UK Met Office, is in effect from 3pm Friday until noon on Saturday, anticipating potential travel disruptions.

A status yellow temperature and ice warning covers Munster, as well as Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, and Wicklow, beginning at 6pm Saturday and continuing until 11am Sunday. Additional status yellow snow and ice warnings will be in effect for Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Connacht, and Louth from 6pm Saturday to 11am Sunday, and again from 6pm Sunday to 11am Monday.

During both warning periods for the northern and western counties, a status yellow low temperature and ice warning will also be in place for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow and Munster.

Travel Concerns and Forecast Details

Met Éireann has cautioned that snow accumulations and the formation of sharp or severe frost and ice are likely during the warned periods. Forecaster Holly O’Neill noted that while widespread snow is unlikely, any accumulations are most probable in the north and northeast of the country. She emphasized the short duration of the cold snap – Saturday, Sunday, and into Monday – but highlighted the risk of dangerous travel conditions due to overnight frost that may not thaw as people return to work and school on Monday.

Expert Insight: The timing of this cold spell, coinciding with a return to routine for many, elevates the potential impact of icy conditions. Even localized ice formation can create significant hazards for commuters and pedestrians.

Friday will see cloud and patchy rain in the south, giving way to sunny spells and scattered showers. Ulster and Connacht are expected to experience falls of sleet or snow. Friday night will be cold with frost and ice developing. These conditions will persist into Saturday, with sunshine and continued wintry showers in Ulster and Connacht. Cork is expected to experience the coldest temperatures Saturday night, with lows reaching -4 degrees.

Looking Ahead

Sunday is forecast to be cold with sharp to severe frosts, potentially slow to clear, creating dangerous driving conditions. Wintry showers are expected mainly in the north and northwest. Sunday night will be very cold and mostly dry, with further showers in the north and west, and temperatures potentially dropping to -4 degrees. Monday night will remain cold, with temperatures between -4 and 0 degrees.

A shift in weather patterns is anticipated on Tuesday, with temperatures rising as cloud builds from the west and outbreaks of rain expected in the west and southwest. Met Éireann acknowledges “some uncertainty” regarding the long-term forecast, but current indications suggest continued unsettled conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a status yellow warning?

A status yellow warning from Met Éireann indicates that all people should be aware of the potential for hazardous weather conditions. It is the least severe of the three warning levels.

Where are the snow and ice warnings in effect?

A snow and ice warning is in effect for Donegal from 8pm Friday to 11am Saturday. From 6pm Saturday to 11am Sunday, and again from 6pm Sunday to 11am Monday, warnings are in place for Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Connacht, and Louth.

What temperatures are expected?

Temperatures are forecast to fall to as low as -4 degrees, particularly in Cork on Saturday night and across much of the country on Sunday and Monday nights.

Given the potential for hazardous conditions, how will you adjust your travel plans or daily routines to ensure your safety and the safety of others this weekend?

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Orange rain warning issued by Met Éireann for south of country – The Irish Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

An orange weather warning has been issued for the south of Ireland on Sunday, following a yellow rain warning that already covered large parts of the country this weekend.

What happened

Met Éireann warned that heavy rain will arrive in the west of Ireland on Saturday evening, prompting a yellow rain warning for Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Donegal and Connacht from 6 pm Saturday until midnight Monday. The warning was upgraded to orange – the second most severe level – for counties Cork and Kerry on Sunday, with conditions expected from 3 am to 6 pm.

The orange warning cites “significant” river and surface‑water flooding, hazardous travelling conditions and poor visibility. A further yellow rain warning will be in force for Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford from midnight Sunday until 3 am Monday, and the UK Met Office has issued a yellow rain warning for parts of Northern Ireland from midnight Sunday to 6 am Monday. A status yellow gale warning also covers the Irish Sea and surrounding coasts from midday Saturday to 4 pm Sunday.

Did You Know? The orange warning applied to Cork and Kerry is classified as the second most severe level of weather warning used by Met Éireann.

Why it matters

Flood risk is heightened by high river levels and saturated ground, making river and surface‑water flooding likely across the affected counties. Difficult travelling conditions and reduced visibility could disrupt daily commutes and emergency responses. The warnings follow Storm Bram, which recently left thousands without power and caused significant coastal flooding.

Expert Insight: The upgrade to orange signals that authorities are anticipating more than just isolated puddles – widespread flooding could strain local infrastructure and complicate recovery efforts, especially in the wake of Storm Bram’s damage.

What could happen next

If the heavy rain persists, additional flooding could develop in the counties under the yellow warning, especially Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford, where the forecaster noted a likelihood of flooding. The gale warning may keep winds strong across coastal areas, potentially delaying clean‑up operations.

Looking ahead, Met Éireann suggests that rain may linger over the southeast next week while drier, brighter conditions are expected elsewhere. Tuesday could bring largely dry and bright weather with isolated showers in the west, offering a potential window for recovery activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which counties are under the orange weather warning?

The orange warning applies to counties Cork and Kerry, and is expected to last from 3 am to 6 pm on Sunday.

What impacts are associated with the orange warning?

The forecaster indicated “significant” river and surface‑water flooding, hazardous travelling conditions and poor visibility.

When does the yellow rain warning for Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford run?

The yellow rain warning for those counties is in effect from midnight on Sunday until 3 am on Monday.

How are you preparing for the forecasted weather challenges?

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