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Public urged to be vigilant and prepare for severe weather conditions

11 December 2022

Clare County Council is urging members of the public to be vigilant and prepare for severe weather conditions following a meeting of the National Emergency Coordination Group (NECG) this morning (Sunday, 11th December).

The meeting, which was attended by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, assessed national and local preparedness in advance of the ongoing cold weather which Met Éireann is forecasting for this week.

Weather conditions

Met Éireann has advised that an arctic air mass will remain over Ireland until at least Friday and bring a range of wintry hazards, including severe frost, ice and wintry showers. Freezing fog will also be a particular hazard today, tonight and tomorrow.

An Orange Warning for ice/low temperatures and freezing fog has been issued for the entire country from 17:00 today until 12:00 on Monday (12th December). Temperatures are likely to fall below -5C in many areas.

A Yellow Warning has also been issued for snow and ice for Donegal and Mayo, valid 23:30 today until 12:00 on Monday.

A Yellow Warning for ice/low temperatures will remain in place across the country this week.

Public advice

  • Driving conditions will be hazardous with black ice, freezing temperatures, and freezing fog. Slow down and be aware of other road users allow extra time and drive with caution.
  • Take extra care while walking: footpaths etc. can be extremely hazardous/slippery due to ice.
  • Check on vulnerable and isolated neighbours.
  • Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112.

The website www.winterready.ie also provides advice on preparing for severe weather.

Key messages

  • The public transport system continues to operate as normal. The public are advised to monitor transport providers websites and social media channels for updates.
  • Local authorities have activated their winter maintenance plans. Severe weather assessment teams are monitoring the situation and co-ordinating an appropriate response. Widespread gritting will continue, as well as ploughing where necessary.
  • Schools will remain open as normal.

Speaking after today’s meeting, Minister O’Brien today emphasised: “We will continue to monitor the ongoing weather conditions and ensure that all arms of the state are responding speedily and appropriately to meet any challenges. I would advise everybody to monitor national and local media, including social media, over the coming days to keep up to date with information regarding the developing weather situation.

“Above all, make sure you stay warm and safe and keep in touch with vulnerable or elderly neighbours.”

Today’s meeting of the NECG was convened by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in its role as Lead Government Department for the response to severe weather events.

Clare County Council will be monitoring the situation for any changes in the weather forecast. Please check Met Éireann for updates.

Page last reviewed: 11/12/22

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