Q&A: What is a Sudden Stratospheric Warming and how will it affect Irish weather?

Storm Emma/Beast from the East saw heavy snowfall across Ireland in February and March of 2018. Picture: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie

Irish weather experts and forecasters have been put on high alert for the possibility of snow in the next few weeks, thanks to models showing an increased likelihood of a Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW).

The weather events can cause a plunge in temperatures, heavy snow and freezing conditions.