Derry and Donegal surprised by snow flurries with temperatures of -2 forecast in some parts of the north

Cold weather was forecast but it nonetheless took people by surprise at the end of March when they are tentatively contemplating shedding a few layers.

Meteorologists are warning people to expect more of the same.

Met Éireann said it will be cold with sunny spells and scattered showers this morning, some will be heavy with the risk of hail and isolated thunderstorms.

Showers will become more frequent and squally at times this afternoon, and some will turn wintry also. Highest temperatures of 5 to 9 degrees early in the afternoon, however it will quickly turn colder as the afternoon progresses.

The Met Office have forecast a much colder day despite some bright or sunny spells.

There will be scattered heavy showers, most frequent in the west, wintery on high ground. Cloudier with more persistent rain late afternoon. Maximum temperature 9 °C.

Tonight there will be rain in the early evening clearing by late evening to scattered showers and clear spells. Showers likely to turn heavier and more frequent for a time overnight, but dry by dawn. Minimum temperature -2 °C.