The country is bracing itself for a cold, windy and very showery day, while motorists are advised to expect frost and the risk of icy patches in sheltered spots this morning.

A status yellow wind warning is in place today for the western coastal counties of Mayo, Galway, Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick.

Met Eireann is warning of westerly winds veering Northwest and reaching 55-60 km an hour near coastal fringes.

The wind warning remains in place until midnight tonight.

Meanwhile, parts of the country are on alert for snow showers.

The status yellow snow & ice warning is for counties Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan, Louth & Donegal.