The Orange alert will be in effect from 5pm on Saturday until 5pm on Sunday for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary.

Forecasters warn of dangerous travel conditions, potential transport disruptions, challenges to animal welfare, and hazardous walking conditions.

Forecasters say all parts of Ireland could experience sleet or snow over the weekend, raising concerns that some schools may remain closed on Monday. Sub-zero temperatures are expected in the coming days, prompting authorities to urge caution on the roads.

In addition to the Status Orange warning, a Status Yellow snow and ice warning will be in place for Leinster, Connacht, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford from 5pm on Saturday to 5pm on Sunday.

A separate Status Yellow warning for rain and snow will apply to Cork and Kerry from 1pm on Saturday to 5pm on Sunday.

Met Éireann’s Gerry Murphy described the conditions as “cold and sharp”, predicting sleet and snow across many regions between Saturday evening and Sunday.

“It will likely fall as rain along the south coast, but significant rainfall is expected in the south and southwest,” he told RTÉ Radio One, adding that rainfall warnings could be issued for these areas.

“As the rain moves north, it will turn to sleet and, later, snow—especially over the southern half of the country and parts of the Midlands and the west. Counties in the northeast may be less affected due to easterly winds,” he explained.

By Sunday morning, all regions could experience sleet or snow at some point, but the exact impact remains uncertain.

Mr. Murphy said it is too early to determine whether schools will remain open on Monday, as the extent of snowfall will only become clear over the weekend.

“There could be snow accumulations on Monday morning, combined with severe frost. School closures are a possibility, but we will know more as the weekend progresses,” he said.

Forecasters warn that low temperatures will persist next week, making it difficult for snow to melt.

The Dublin Region Homeless Executive has confirmed that 82 additional emergency beds will be available if needed. It will monitor the situation and activate extra accommodation if weather conditions worsen.

People are encouraged to report individuals sleeping rough via the Dublin City Rough Sleeper Alerts website or app.

Alone, an organisation supporting older people has urged extra caution on icy paths, warning that slips and falls can be life-threatening for those over 75.

The charity is also calling on people to check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may struggle with the cold conditions.