Motorists warned amid strong winds

Motorists were warned to take extra care after gale force winds battered the country.

Rain, sleet and snow also fell around the country, leaving slippery road conditions in parts of Leinster, including Carlow, Tullow, Naas, Wexford and New Ross.

AA Roadwatch said drivers should avoid the Sally Gap and the Wicklow Gap.

Snow has also been falling in the Woodenbridge and Baltinglass areas.

“Motorists are advised to slow down, drive with extra care and remember stopping distances are 10 times longer in snow and ice,” it said.

Irish Ferries has cancelled its Swift sailings between Dublin and Holyhead this morning due to the weather.

Met Eireann said north to north-east gales will continue along the Irish coast, with winds forecast to reach force six or higher between Hook Head to Slyne Head and Belfast Lough. It will be a very cold, blustery day with frost in places.

Lowest temperatures are due to fall to between two degrees and minus two degrees overnight, when widespread frost is expected, it added.

Elsewhere, a 56-year-old man died when he was struck by a car near the junction of Amiens Street and Talbot Street in Dublin city centre shortly after 1am. The road has reopened.