Weekend snow and ice warnings extended into Monday for Northern Ireland

The Met Office has issued two consecutive yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across Northern Ireland, warning that prolonged wintry conditions could lead to travel disruption from Friday afternoon through the weekend and into Monday morning.

The first warning is in effect from 3:00pm on Friday 2 January 2026 until 12:00pm on Saturday 3 January 2026, with a second warning following immediately from 12:00pm on Saturday 3 January until 12:00pm on Monday 5 January 2026.

Forecasters say “wintry showers will become more widespread, bringing some disruption to travel” as cold northerly winds introduce sleet and snow across much of the region.

According to the Met Office, “cold northerly winds will bring sleet and snow showers across much of Northern Ireland on Friday afternoon, overnight and into Saturday morning, bringing the likelihood of ice on untreated surfaces.”

While many low-lying areas are expected to see limited snowfall initially, forecasters said “a cm or two is possible in places, with the potential for 2–5 cm on higher routes such as the Glenshane Pass.”

Wintry conditions are expected to persist beyond Saturday, with the Met Office warning that “snow and ice has the potential to cause disruption to travel in places throughout the weekend and into Monday morning.”

Snow showers are forecast to continue across many parts of Northern Ireland over the weekend. The Met Office said “snow showers will continue to affect many parts of Northern Ireland over the weekend, before gradually easing on Monday.”

The most frequent and heavier showers are expected in northern areas, though conditions may be mixed closer to the coast. Forecasters noted that “the heaviest and most frequent snow showers will be in the north, although along the north coast these may fall as rain or sleet at times.”

While not all areas covered by the warnings will experience snowfall, accumulations are expected to build in many locations. The Met Office said “whilst not all locations in the warning areas will see snow, around 1–3 cm is expected to have fallen in many places by Monday morning.”

More significant snowfall is possible in a small number of locations, particularly on higher ground. Forecasters warned of “the potential for 5–10 cm to build up in a few locations, especially over higher routes, such as Glenshane Pass.”

In addition to snow, icy conditions are expected to pose an added risk, with the Met Office cautioning that “ice will be an additional hazard for many.”

Untreated roads, pavements and rural routes are likely to be particularly affected, especially overnight and during early morning hours.

The prolonged nature of the warnings may be of concern for commuters, delivery drivers and those travelling for work or family commitments over the weekend. Rural communities and upland routes are expected to be most vulnerable to rapidly changing conditions.

Road users are advised to drive with care, allow extra time for journeys and check the latest travel and weather updates before setting out. People are also encouraged to look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours during the cold spell.