THE Met Office has upgraded its snow and ice warning for Derry urging people to prepare for the worst.
Forecasters have also issued further yellow warnings for snow and ice until the weekend.
An amber alert is now in place from 3 pm on Tuesday until 8am on Wednesday.
Weather caused disruption on Tuesday morning as the snow descended.
Amber means there is an increased likelihood of bad weather which could potentially disrupt plans and possibly cause travel delays, road and rail closures, interruption to power and the “potential risk to life and property”.
“Amber means you need to be prepared to change your plans and protect you, your family and community from the impacts of the severe weather,” the Met office said.
Heavy, squally showers of snow will continue through Tuesday and into the night, with longer spells of snow for a time, especially in the evening.
“Over the hills, snow will drift in the strong to gale force winds,” the Met Office said
“A gradual improvement is likely on Wednesday for most areas.
“Travel delays on roads are likely, as are public transport cancellations, and some vehicles may become stranded, more especially on higher routes.
“There is a chance of power cuts, while services such as mobile phone coverage may be affected.
“Some rural communities seem likely to become cut off. In addition roads and pavements will turn icy, increasing the chances of accidents or injuries.”
Meanwhile yellow warnings for snow and ice are in place until Friday night.
A yellow warning means sever weather is possible and the public should plan for disruption.
The Department for Infrastructure said that around 300 staff and 130 gritters will be busy salting roads with 12 specialist snow blowers also available.
Gritters lorries were out overnight working to keep the Glenshane Pass – the main route from Derry to Belfast – open.
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