Wintry conditions are biting across Ireland this morning, though conditions in Clare are relatively minor when compared with other parts of the country.
Icy conditions have already been reported on some county roads following subzero temperatures overnight – slippery conditions have been reported on the Sixmilebridge to Kilkishen road and on parts of the M18 and N18.
In the East, however, Met Eireann has upgraded its warning to its highest level, Status Red, after up to 16 centimetres of snow fell in some areas
Schools in Dublin and in surrounding counties are likely to close in those today as a result, but there are no reports of any school closures in Clare today.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar says the country is prepared for the storm to come:
The heavy snowfall is causing severe travel disruption in the east this morning.
A number of flights have been cancelled out of Dublin Airport – seven flights have already diverted to Shannon Airport, which remains fully operational this morning, while further diversions are also expected.
Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus are also warning of significant disruption to their services on account of the weather conditions.
With the prospect of heavy rainfall here later this week, Shannon Chamber is calling on employers in this county to take a common sense approach in asking employees to attend work when conditions will be at their worst.
CEO of Shannon Chamber Helen Downes says the onus is on employers to respect the weather and know when to say no:
Met Eireann Forecaster John Eagleton has the very latest:
