Pat Griffin, the senior inspector for agriculture at the HSA has advised farmers to ensure that they carry out certain tasks and items in preparation for the cold snap.

Speaking to RTÉ radio, Griffin said that “farmers have been given an opportunity to plan”.

He advised farmers to:

  • Fuel tractors before the cold weather sets in.
  • Ensure farm pathways are kept clear of ice and snow.
  • Don’t go outside without a fully-charged phone.
  • Carry a back-up phone charger.
  • Wear a high visibility jacket.
  • Carry a torch – visibility is expected to be poor.

    • The National Emergency Coordination Group is due to meet again this morning to discuss how to deal with the ‘beast from the east’.

    The Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoghan Murphy told RTÉ radio this morning that the country has "learnt lessons since 2010", and is better prepared for a severe weather event.

    Minister Murphy stated that 300 snow ploughs are available and enough supplies of grit and salt to keep roads open for several weeks, if the bad weather is prolonged.

    “We’re hoping for the best but preparing for the worst,” Murphy said.

    He stated that it was "too soon" to announce if the government would be introducing road closures due to snow storms.

    Weather

    A national status orange weather warning is due to come into effect in the east of the country from 3pm today.

    Snow showers are expected in Dublin, Carlow, Kildare, Laois, Louth, Wicklow and Meath, with accumulations of 4cm to 6cm.

    A snow and ice status yellow warning is also due to come into effect from 6pm this evening in Kilkenny, Longford, Wexford, Offaly, Westmeath, Cork, Tipperary and Waterford.

    Widespread frost and icy conditions are expected with snow accumulations of up to 3cm.

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