Snow on roads as big chill kicks in

Snow fell on many parts of the country today as a late winter chill began to bite.

Nippy north-easterly winds coated roads with frost and black ice which caused delays on commuter routes and a spate of minor collisions.

Near-arctic conditions could plunge as low as minus-three degrees tonight, Met Éireann said.

Earlier, snow showers fell on upland areas in Ulster, east and south Munster and on the east coast.

"Snow on the Galtee mountains in mid-Munster was clearly visible on our satellite pictures today," said Met Éireann forecaster Vincent O'Shea.

The M50 in Dublin was twice gritted by snow trucks before the morning rush hour.

AA Roadwatch warned motorists to stay clear of the snow-prone upland areas such as Wicklow Gap and the Sally Gap in Co Wicklow.

Road conditions on N81 around Baltinglass and Blessington in Co Wicklow were hazardous around daybreak and some cars had to be abandoned after skidding into ditches.

A multi-vehicle crash at Ross Cross in Co Meath added to delays on the N3 and there were also reports of collisions in Co Laois and Kilkenny.

Tomorrow is expected to be another very cold day and AA Roadwatch advised motorists to take extra care when driving overnight and early in the morning.