Severe pressure on health and water services are being tackled by staff nationwide as the massive clean-up continues in the aftermath of Storm Emma.

Latest: As the snow melts drivers are being warned not to be lulled into a false sense of security.

Just what is going on?

The public has been warned of flooding across many areas as the thaw after Storm Emma begins.

With thousands of people still without power and water due to Storm Ophelia, the country must now brace itself for 130km/h winds courtesy of Storm Brian.

Tens of thousands of homes remain without electricity and power in the wake of Storm Ophelia as it emerged that Ireland will not qualify for any financial help from the EU to cope with the aftermath.

Ireland should seek EU emergency funding to help tackle the aftermath of Ophelia, according to the Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly.

Update - 2.55pm:A man has died in Cahir, Co Tipperary while attempting to move debris brought down by Hurricane Ophelia.

The Office of Public Works Minister has promised to remove any red tape preventing those hit by floods in getting assistance.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney is to visit parts of Galway and Clare in the coming days to see the impact of the heavy rain and flooding on farmers and their livestock.

The minister in charge of the Government’s response to the flooding crisis has said it cannot solve all the problems but it will limit the impact on those who have been affected.