Threat of snow spreading from west

THERE IS an ongoing risk of sleet or snow in Munster, Leinster and the northwest tonight, with temperatures expected to dip as low as -6 degrees.

The freezing temperatures follow heavy falls of snow in Donegal, Mayo and high ground in Co Wicklow on Thursday night.

Met Éireann said today would feature a dry and bright start, with sunny periods after early mist and fog. However, wintry showers are expected on Atlantic coasts. and rain will reach west Munster this afternoon.

The rain is set to turn to sleet or snow as it spreads to the rest of Munster and Leinster during this evening and tonight.

The current cold spell is also expected to continue through tomorrow and much of next week. Daytime temperatures are not expected to rise above 7C, while sharp or severe frosts are expected at night, bringing temperatures as low as -6C in places.

Tomorrow and Monday should have a good deal of dry weather with sunny spells and light northerly breezes.

However, scattered wintry showers of rain, hail, sleet or snow, mainly in coastal counties of the north and west, will continue.