Cold snap brings sharp frosts across Ireland, with temperatures dropping to -5C

Ireland is in the grip of a sharp cold snap. Temperatures have fallen well below freezing overnight, and frost and icy patches are forecast for commuters across much of the country.

The turn came on Thursday 12 November, when a colder northerly airflow began pushing cold air over the country. Met Éireann warned that temperatures could drop as low as -2C on Thursday evening in places, with a biting windchill in Dublin and other areas.

By Friday morning the cold had deepened. The Irish Mirror reported temperatures plunging to -5.4C, with frost and icy patches across the country, while Cork saw readings of around -3C in parts overnight. North Cork was expected to be among the coldest areas.

The daytime picture was just as raw. Cork was expected to reach only 5 to 8C on Friday, with a light breeze that made it feel colder. Met Éireann described the coldest night of the season as one with no snow expected, but with widespread frost and ice.

Drivers have been warned about icy patches, particularly in the southwest, and commuters have been urged to allow extra time.

The outlook is less settled. A milder spell is forecast for the weekend, with temperatures expected to climb back into double digits on Saturday in some areas. However, Met Éireann has signalled a change after the weekend, with wintry showers and sleet pushing in early next week and more frost and ice at night. Newstalk reported the cold is set to stay until next week.

Some enthusiast forecasters have also pointed to a possible blocking high over Scandinavia and northern Europe in late November. That is not an official forecast, and forecasters have stressed the uncertainty of the longer range.

For now, the practical advice is to check road conditions before travelling, take care on icy footpaths, and check on older neighbours during the coldest nights.