March 20th marks the Spring Equinox and the first day of the season - but snow and ice are setting in across Donegal in this week.
The dismal weather that drenched Donegal on St. Patrick’s weekend is set to change to another extreme this week on the Spring Equinox.
Snow and ice warnings have been put in place as temperatures are set to plummet to blow freezing tonight in Donegal.
Met Eireann are forecasting an early frost and showers which will turn wintry on higher ground. Lowest temperatures will be between +1 and -1 degrees.
As well as bitterly cold conditions, strong winds are expected to strike the coastal regions. The gusts may turn into gale force winds at times during the night.
The Status Yellow weather warning for snow and ice comes with a caution for drivers to take extreme care as dangerous driving conditions can be expected and road temperatures are likely to be close to freezing or below. Snow accumulations of 1-3cm are likely at higher altitudes. The warning is in place from Monday morning until Tuesday at 12noon.
Tuesday is forecast to have a very cold start, with strong winds bringing an extra chill factor. Many places will start dry with some sunshine, but wintry showers will affect western areas in the morning with snow possible even on lower levels, forecasters predict.
Cold temperatures and sunny spells mark the beginning of this week
The frost is expected to continue on Wednesday and Thursday nights, with cold temperatures, snow showers and sunny spells lasting throughout. Friday will bring milder conditions ahead of a dry and bright weekend.
