LATEST: New weather warnings take effect in Waterford as cold snap is set to continue

A number of new weather warnings have come into effect in Waterford as the current cold snap is set to continue until the middle of next week.

While a status orange snow/ice warning was lifted at 8pm this Sunday, a status yellow snow/ice warning is in place until midnight.

Met Éireann has issued a separate status yellow low temperature / ice warning for the whole of Ireland and that will remain in place until midday on Thursday, January 9.

A number of schools in Waterford have already confirmed they will not re-open on Monday following the Christmas holidays while public transport services are also being impacted because of the poor travelling conditions.

Waterford City and Council is advising members of the public that the difficult conditions are likely given the expected cold nights combined with widespread frost and ice.

Potential impacts include hazardous travelling conditions, icy patches and travel disruption.

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The local authority says with heavy snowfall ongoing in higher areas – Ballymacarbry, Rathgormack, Clonmel and Carrick-on-Suir - some roads may become impassable, and people should avoid travelling in these areas.

"Wet surfaces and overnight freezing temperatures will lead to very slippery conditions and the possibility of black ice, making travel conditions throughout the week very challenging.  Waterford City and County Council advises people to assess whether making a journey by road is necessary. If it is not, please consider delaying your trip until the weather and road conditions improve," said a spokesperson.

"If the journey is necessary Waterford City and County Council is advising motorists to slow down and drive with caution even on gritted roads, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey," they added.

With surface water levels remaining high until 9am on Monday, the local authority says there may be some risk of localised and spot flooding.  Motorists are being urged to avoid driving through flowing or standing water and be conscious of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists. 

Key public safety messages: 

• Driving conditions will be hazardous, even where roads are gritted, slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey.
• Drivers travelling longer journeys are advised to be aware of conditions right along their route, as the weather may vary significantly across different parts of the country.
• Public transport may also be affected by this spell of wintry weather, so check with service operators for the latest updates in their area.
• Take extra care while walking as footpaths can be extremely hazardous/slippery due to ice.
• Check on elderly, vulnerable and isolated neighbours.
• Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112.
• The Be Winter Ready website provides further advice on preparing for severe weather.
• People are advised to prepare for this period of severe weather including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.
• Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and visit met.ie for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
• ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor PowerCheck.ie.
• Uisce Éireann Customers can check their website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via our 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. People can also sign up online to free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies - see water.ie.