ALERT: New severe weather warning issued for Kilkenny

A status orange 'freezing fog' warning is now in effect for Kilkenny and twenty other counties.

The warning was issued earlier today (Monday) by Met Éireann and is valid from 12pm until midnight.

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The national forecaster warns that fog will remain dense in spots, persisting through the afternoon and into tonight, leading to very hazardous driving conditions.

A status yellow 'ice/low temperature' warning is also in effect for Kilkenny until Friday at 12pm.

It is set to remain very cold throughout the week with widespread sharp to severe frosts and icy stretches.

Some showers of hail, sleet and snow will occur, although mainly near coasts.

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Accumulations at lower levels are expected to remain low.

Possible other impacts include:

• Treacherous conditions on paths and roads
• Travel disruption
• Potential supply disruption
• Potential for burst water pipes and damage to engines
• Increased risks to vulnerable members of the community
• Animal welfare issues
• Slack winds over land leading to reduced wind power generation

Met Éireann have advised commuters to exercise caution for the duration of the cold spell.