Weather warning upgraded to AMBER ahead of heavy snow
Last updated 9th Mar 2023
Snow storms are expected to hit Northern Ireland this afternoon, forecasters have warned.
Wednesday marked the coldest night of the year so far (-16C in the Highlands) and more sub-zero overnight temperatures to continue in the coming days.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for periods of heavy snow - “ 4-8 cm of snow is likely away from immediate coasts, with 10-20 cm possible over higher ground.”
Counties Antrim, Armagh and Down are likely to be most affected.
The amber warning lasts for 13 hours from 3pm on Thursday 9th March, with disruption to transport, power lines and phone network coverage expected.
Snow should begin to ease by the early hours of Friday, before clearing to the east.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said: “Snow, ice and low temperatures are the main themes of this week’s forecast, with the UK under an arctic maritime air mass.
“Snow could lead to some travel disruption, with a chance some rural communities in the north could be cut off.
What to expect:
-Travel delays on roads are likely, stranding some vehicles and passengers
-Some delays and cancellations to bus, rail and air travel are likely
-There is a good chance that some rural communities could become cut off
-Power cuts are likely and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected
-Injuries from slips and falls are likely on icy surfaces
NI’s five-day weather forecast:
Today: A dry start to the day with some bright spells, but outbreaks of snow spreading north during the afternoon, heavy at times. Easterly winds becoming strong. Maximum temperature 4 °C.
Tonight: Snow will continue through this evening and the first part of the night but then clearing east, leaving clear skies behind. Winds easing. Minimum temperature -4 °C.
Friday: A cold but mainly fine and dry day tomorrow with just the odd shower. Generally light winds. Maximum temperature 6 °C.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday: A dry and bright start on Saturday but rain or sleet soon pushing in from the southwest. Further bands of rain on Sunday and Monday with drier interludes between.
Read more:
Moira: shock as one-year-old boy dies in village crash involving lorry
Drugs worth £27,000 found in Doagh