Latest: Forecasters say the coldest February in five years could cause travel disruption and problems with frozen pipes next week.

Motorists are being advised to drive with extra care as the cold snap continues to grip the country.

Winter fuel allowance payments for the lower paid are to be extended amid concerns about the costs of heating and energy bills in the freezing conditions.

Arctic conditions are expected to continue into the weekend, while well-known weather guru Ken Ring is predicting Ireland will be shivering in freezing temperatures right up until the summer.