NORTHERN Ireland is bracing itself for the first real cold spell this winter with snow set to fall on Thursday and Friday.
A 'yellow' warning of snow has been issued by the Met Office for County Antrim from 3pm on Thursday until 12 noon on Friday while sleet and snow will cause difficult driving conditions in some areas.
On high ground snow could reach a depth of 10 cm on ground above 150 metres, with 1-4 cm accumulations predicted for lower levels and icy stretches "likely" on untreated roads.
The 'yellow' status, meaning be aware and plan ahead, coincides with temperatures dipping to -5 in areas and difficult travel conditions for motorists.
The Met Office urged extra caution on the roads as snow and ice add to the misery of those still coping with the aftermath of floods left by Storm Frank last month.
The December storm saw more than 270 roads blocked by floods or fallen trees while emergency crews restored electricity to almost 21,000 homes and businesses.
