IRELAND'S national forecaster, Met Eireann, have extended their weather warning for today to cover the entire island.
A status yellow warning was initially put in place for northwestern counties, however, the entire country is now being told to brace themselves for ‘thundersnow’.
The rare phenomenon occurs when thunderstorms - much more common in summer – form in wintry conditions.
Forecasters say there is a possibility that some of Ireland’s snow showers could be accompanied by thunder this evening.
As well as this, Arctic air will see temperatures hover just above freezing all evening, and as low as -1C overnight.
Met Eireann said: “During Thursday night scattered wintry showers will continue with the risk of hail or thunder. There will be good clear spells and it will turn cold with lowest temperatures falling to between -1C and 3C degrees leading to frost, especially in the north and east. Westerly winds will be moderate to fresh.”
Tomorrow is expected to be a similar day, with temperatures gradually getting warmer as the Arctic air passes on.
“Friday will continue cold with sunny spells and showers, wintry showers becoming confined to northern areas by afternoon. Highest temperatures of 3C to 7C.
“Friday night will be cold with frost and icy patches developing in many areas. Rain will develop in the southwest towards morning. Lowest temperatures of -2C to 2C.”
