Residents of Roscommon and surrounding counties are facing significant disruptions as an intense cold snap grips Ireland. The harsh weather has prompted multiple severe weather warnings from Met Éireann, culminating in a status orange alert for low temperatures and ice, affecting much of the country, including Roscommon. This warning remains in place until 11:00 on Thursday, 9 January 2025.
Weather warnings
The week began with a status yellow alert for low temperatures and ice, issued by Met Éireann on Sunday, 5 January, and covering the entire country until midday on Friday, 10 January. On Tuesday, 7 January, the warning was upgraded to a status orange alert for Leinster, Munster, Connacht, and Ulster counties, including Roscommon, valid from 18:00 on Wednesday, 8 January, until 11:00 on Thursday, 9 January.
This advisory cautioned of widespread severe frost, ice, and lying snow, highlighting the potential for dangerous travel conditions, significant disruptions, and animal welfare concerns. Roscommon County Council reiterated this warning and urged residents to exercise extreme care when travelling and to make appropriate preparations.
School closures
The severe weather led to the closure of numerous schools across Roscommon on Wednesday, 8 January, with icy roads and freezing fog making conditions hazardous for both students and staff. Confirmed closures include:
- Abbey College, Boyle
- Lisacul National School, Ballaghaderreen
- St Nathy’s College, Ballaghaderreen
- St Attracta’s National School, Ballaghaderreen
- Elphin Community College
- Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown
- St Anne’s National School, Castlerea
- Roscommon CBS
- St. Michael’s School, Castlerea
- Tarmon NS, Castlerea
- Frenchpark NS
- Trien NS
- Castlerea Community School
- Clonbonniffe NS
Schools in neighbouring counties, such as Carrick-on-Shannon Community School and Gaelscoil Liatroma, were also closed due to similar concerns.
Business disruptions
Several businesses in Roscommon adapted their opening hours or remained closed in response to the treacherous conditions:
Roscommon Credit Union branches in Roscommon Town and Ballaghaderreen opened at 11:30.
Ballinasloe Credit Union opened from 12:00.
Boyle Credit Union closed early at 15:30.
Roscommon Leisure Centre operated reduced hours from 09:00 to 19:00, with swimming lessons cancelled for both Wednesday and Thursday.
The Local Link Leitrim-Roscommon Route 977 service between Castlerea and Ballaghaderreen was suspended early Wednesday morning, with a review planned later in the day.
National impact
Across Ireland, hazardous road conditions and freezing fog caused widespread travel disruptions, with public transport services experiencing delays and cancellations. Met Éireann has advised against non-essential travel and urged motorists to take extreme caution.
The Department of Agriculture and Food has also reminded farmers and pet owners to ensure adequate shelter, food, and water for animals, as extreme cold poses significant risks to their welfare.
Coming days
According to forecasts, conditions are expected to remain challenging but show signs of gradual improvement:
Thursday, 9 January: Lows of -3°C, highs of 3°C, with minimal precipitation.
Friday, 10 January: A 50% chance of rain or snow, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 3°C.
Saturday, 11 January: Dry conditions anticipated, with lows of 1°C and highs of 3°C.
Sunday, 12 January: A welcome rise in temperatures, reaching the high single digits, with milder conditions expected in the coming week.
Summary
As Roscommon and much of Ireland endure the brunt of this cold snap, residents are urged to prioritise safety and prepare for continued disruptions. The impact on schools, businesses, and travel highlights the seriousness of the situation, but a forecasted rise in temperatures offers hope for a return to normality in the days ahead.
