Road users advised to exercise caution amidst winter weather

Motorists have been advised to exercise caution on the roads as cold weather conditions are leading to ice formation across Northern Ireland. The Met Office stated, “Icy stretches are expected to form on untreated surfaces.” Both the Met Office and the police have jointly recommended allowing additional time for journeys. A yellow weather warning was active for counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Londonderry, and Tyrone, remaining in effect until 10:00 on Thursday. Arctic weather systems began moving into the British Isles at the start of the week. Temperatures are anticipated to rise later on Thursday but will not exceed 4-5C. Periods of sunshine on Thursday are likely to be interrupted by further showers originating from the north, which are expected to transition into extended periods of sleet and snow later in the day. In the Republic of Ireland, significant snowfall occurred in numerous parts of the country overnight, as Status Orange and Yellow weather warnings became active at midnight. A Status Orange warning for snow and ice remains in effect for counties Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, and Galway until midday on Thursday. An Orange warning for snow and rain has also been issued for counties Cork and Waterford. A Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning is valid until midday, with temperatures projected to fall to approximately -4C. The substantial snow has presented challenges for local authority crews attempting to clear and grit roads throughout the night. Several road traffic incidents have occurred, resulting in road closures nationwide. Bus Éireann has suspended some services due to the prevailing meteorological conditions. Thousands of individuals are experiencing power outages in Galway and Mayo, attributed to snow, ice, and lightning causing a number of lines to trip. In certain localities, schools have opted for delayed openings as a preventative measure. The Met Office utilizes a yellow warning to indicate that weather conditions are likely to cause some low-level traffic disruption and serves as a precautionary measure. When a yellow warning is issued specifically for ice, it aims to inform individuals to be aware of the potential for icy surfaces and to exercise caution when travelling. The Met Office has stated that it is safer to avoid driving in icy conditions but has suggested several precautions that drivers should take if it is necessary.