The relentless weather onslaught will continue unabated for the next few days.
After last night’s heavy snowfall, Storm Rachel will bring along strong winds of up to 130km/h today. Exposed coasts in the west and north will be worst hit.
Many roads and schools remain closed this morning.
Most secondary and primary schools in east, north and west Donegal are closed.
Wind warnings are in effect for Dublin, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Louth, Wicklow, Offaly, Westmeath, Meath, Cavan, Monaghan, Roscommon and Tipperary.
A heavy rain warning for the west coast will also remain in place for the length of the day today.
Though winds are expected to ease later this evening, deep cold is set to grip the country again tonight.