WEATHER FORECAST: Snow, hail and thunderstorms on the way as Met Eireann forecasts 'raw' wintry snap

The weather in Ireland is set to turn very wintry tonight with the latest Met Eireann weather forecast for Ireland forecasting snow, hail, thunderstorms and freezing temperatures. 

Met Eireann has already issued a Status Yellow Snow and Ice Warning for Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim for tonight. The UK Met Office has issued a Snow Warning for Antrim, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Derry. A Status Yellow Wind Warning for Donegal and Mayo has also been issued.

In its latest forecast Met Eireann warns that winds will continue strong in the west and north tonight and moderating a bit elsewhere. Chilly with a scattering of snow, sleet and rain showers. There is also a chance of some thunderstorms too with local hail. Lowest temperatures of -2 to +1 degrees. Some frost and ice will set in also, especially in sheltered areas.

According to Met Eireann, it will be cold and very windy on Thursday with strong to gale force and gusty west to northwest winds bringing in sunny spells and further scattered wintry showers. A scattering of snow showers and icy stretches during the morning will lead to treacherous conditions in parts. Some thundery showers and hail too, especially in the west and north. Highest temperatures of just 3 to 7 degrees, coldest in the north, with an added wind chill factor.

According to the latest Met Eireann weather forecast for Ireland, Thursday night will feel raw in rather brisk northwest winds with some further scattered wintry showers, mainly confined to western and northern coasts overnight. Long clear spells will develop elsewhere. Lowest temperatures of 0 to 4 degrees with frost and possible ice developing later, that's as the winds ease.