A STATUS red weather alert is now in place across Limerick, Munster and the east of the country as the worst of #StormEmma and the Beast from the East is set to descend nationwide.
Forecasters predict the nation is to be hit with blizzard like conditions with zero visibility later on Thursday night.
Heavier snow is expected in from the south east with thunderstorms/hail over all parts of Munster and south Leinster with gale force winds increasing the risk of coastal flooding.
Issuing a warning to the public, gardai said that everyone across the country has been advised to stay indoors from 4pm on Thursday due to the expected adverse conditions.
Remember to check in on elderly and vulnerable neighbours.
The severe weather alert has been extended until 3pm on Friday with national agencies reviewing conditions and forecasts regularly.
The national forecasters said that “Blizzard conditions will develop from the south Thursday afternoon and evening as heavy snow and strong easterly winds bring snow drifts northwards over the country.
“Eastern and southern coastal counties will be worst affected.”
With up to 40cm of snowfall forecast by lunchtime on Friday, schools and colleges have been closed and will remain so for the rest of the week with a number of major services including banks and State offices also closing their doors.
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