Yellow ice warning issued for Northern Ireland as freezing conditions expected overnight

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice covering all counties in Northern Ireland, with hazardous conditions expected to develop overnight on Sunday 1 February and persist into Monday morning.

The warning is in force from 7pm on Sunday until 9am on Monday, with motorists, pedestrians and commuters urged to take extra care as temperatures drop close to, or below, freezing.

According to the Met Office, icy patches are likely to form on untreated surfaces, particularly following recent rainfall that has left roads and pavements wet.

“With wet surfaces following recent rain, and temperatures falling close to or below freezing, icy patches will be possible on untreated surfaces for a time on Sunday night into Monday morning,” the weather service said.

Morning commute risk

The warning highlights a continued risk into the Monday morning commute, particularly in western areas, where temperatures may remain low for longer.

While cloud is expected to increase from the east later in the night — potentially allowing temperatures to recover slightly — forecasters say conditions are still likely to remain cold in many places.

“Cloud increasing from the east later in the night may allow temperatures to recover, but it will likely remain cold with an ongoing ice risk in western areas into the morning commute hours,” the Met Office added.

Freezing fog possible

In addition to icy roads and pavements, the Met Office has warned that patches of freezing fog could develop, posing an extra hazard for drivers due to reduced visibility.

Rural roads, untreated footpaths, bridges and higher ground are expected to be most at risk, with authorities advising people to allow extra time for travel and to take care when walking outdoors.