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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Anita McSorley

Ireland weather: Met Eireann forecast dramatic change as chilling blast to hit after sunny weekend

Ireland is set to enjoy a sunny and bright weekend - but things will take a turn at night as temperatures plummet below freezing.

Most areas will stay dry and sunny during the day on Saturday and Sunday as high pressure takes hold and temperatures reach double digits.

But after dark, there will be a dramatic change as temperatures plummet as low as -5C causing a widespread sharp frost and some ice patches.

Giving its latest forecast for Saturday, Met Eireann said: “A very cold, crisp start this morning with frost and ice patches. Isolated showers near the north coast will soon die out. Frost will quickly clear as sunshine develops.

“Today will be dry and sunny, with afternoon temperatures of 7C to 10C. Northeast winds will be light to moderate, becoming near calm this evening.

“Very cold tonight with a widespread sharp frost and some ice patches. Lowest temperatures of 0C to -4C, coldest in central areas where locally it may reach -5C. Dry and clear, with calm weather or light breezes.”

Looking ahead to Sunday, the national forecaster said: “Tomorrow morning will be cold and frosty. Sunday will be dry and bright with plenty of sunshine, although it will likely turn cloudier later in southern and southeastern coastal counties.

“Highest temperatures of 7C to 10C with a light to moderate southeast breeze.

“Largely dry and clear at first on Sunday night with frost developing. Some low cloud will spread over the south and some western areas overnight bringing some patchy drizzle.

“Moderate to fresh southeast winds will develop overnight, becoming strong on western coasts by morning. Lowest temperatures of 0C to -3C, a little milder near the south coast.”

Conditions are due to take a turn next week as high pressure moves away. Met Eireann said: “Turning more unsettled and milder next week with high pressure moving away. Breezy conditions will develop with some rain expected.”

It comes as road users have been warned about the dangers of ‘sun glare’.

The dangerous weather event can leave people “temporarily dazzled or blinded”.

On Friday, the Road Safety Authority issued an urgent warning to road users about the dangers it poses.

The rare event happens when the sun is low in the horizon and the angle of the direct sunlight creates a strong glare across the windshield, making it incredibly difficult to see anything in front of you.

An RSA spokesperson said: “This can result in drivers being temporarily dazzled or blinded by the intensity and brightness of a low sun on the horizon.”

With this in mind, the agency reminded road users of what to do in such conditions.

For drivers:

  • Minimise risk by wearing sun glasses

  • Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out

  • Add windshield washer fluid to the water in the reservoir and check that the wipers are not worn away or damaged. Replace them if they are.

  • Reduce your speed. Slowing down on the approach to junctions, corners and bends is critical.

Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to:

  • Beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at junctions.

A separate was also issued about icy conditions. In its latest forecast, Met Eireann has forecast subzero temperatures, frost and ice overnight this weekend.

Fore more advice on severe weather driving tips, check the RSA’s website or social media pages. Met Eireann has the latest weather updates on its website.

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