Status Orange freezing fog warning in place across Ireland today (Dec 12)

A Status Orange freezing fog warning is in place today (December 12) across multiple counties. 

Met Éireann has advised temperatures will remain very low for the rest of the week, bringing a range of wintry hazards including severe frost, ice, wintry showers and freezing fog. 

The orange warning comes into effect today from noon until midnight in Connacht, Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Clare, Limerick and Tipperary. 

The fog will be dense in places, leading to very hazardous driving conditions.

A status yellow low temperature/ ice warning will remain in place for the entire country all week, with current indications suggesting a return to milder conditions at the weekend.

The public transport system continues to operate but may be a bit slower than normal in some areas to ensure safety, with people advised to check with operators before they travel and allow extra time for their journeys.

Local Authorities’ severe weather assessment teams are continuing to monitor the situation and co-ordinate their responses. 

Most schools remain open as normal - though a small number of schools were closed today due to hazardous local conditions - and any decision to close is made by the principal/management taking into account local conditions and safety advice. 

Driving conditions will be hazardous with black ice, freezing temperatures, and freezing fog. Even where roads are gritted, people are advised to slow down, drive with caution, and be aware of other road users. 

People should take extra care while walking on footpaths, check on elderly, vulnerable and isolated neighbours and call 999 or 112 in case of emergency.