High winds and poor weather have caused power cuts in Dublin and seen ferry crossings cancelled as the country is buffeted by bad weather.
The weather was also causing havoc for motorists who have been warned to watch out for debris and vehicles, particularly high-sided vehicles, veering across the road in strong cross winds. Motorcyclists may also be vulnerable.
All Irish Ferries Swift sailings on the Dublin to Holyhead route have been cancelled due to the bad weather with passengers instead being accommodated on the Cruise ferry departing Dublin Port at 8.55pm.
Gale force wind warnings were in place for all Irish coastal waters and on the Irish Sea today said AA Roadwatch.
Meanwhile the electricity supply in some parts of Dublin has been interrupted, with the ESB reporting major faults in the Fitzwilliam Place, Herbert Road and Wilton Square areas. The ESB said they hoped the supply would be restored by 9am
Met Éireann forecast wintry showers of hail, sleet and snow and icy roads across the State today.
Thunderstorms are also expected, with rain and sleet turning to snow - and heavy and significant falls in places. The wintry weather is expected to last until Saturday when conditions will ease.
Forecasters said Ulster, Connacht and West Munster are most at risk, but some snow is likely in other areas tonight and tomorrow.
There are a number of crashes reported in the Dublin region this morning. In Donegal, the R250/251 Letterkenny to Church Hill road has been described as "very dangerous" by AA Roadwatch due to flooding and fallen debris. The road is passable, but extreme care is needed.