Motorists have been warned to take extra care on the roads tonight as Met Éireann issued a weather alert for snow or showers of sleet in parts of the country.
AA Roadwatch said road conditions are likely to be treacherous overnight and first thing tomorrow, with gale force winds and snow forecast for tonight.
The motoring body said hail, sleet and snow in all areas tonight - with the heaviest over Connaught and Ulster - would make driving difficult. Up to six centimetres of snow are expected in these areas.
Ms Emma Caulfield, controller of AA Roadwatch, said: "With snow and very low temperatures forecast, road conditions could become very dangerous.
"Motorists should drive with extreme care overnight and in the early hours of the morning. If you are travelling, reduce your speed, stay a safe distance from the car in front of you and drive with extreme care."
She said that motorists finding themselves in a skid should not brake fast under any circumstances. "If it's too late and you have already braked, release them immediately, then reapply quicker, but gently," Ms Caulfield added.
She said acceleration should be reduced, but that drivers should not take their foot off the accelerator completely. They should also use the highest gears possible under the conditions and move gently down through the gears when stopping.
Motorists have also been warned to watch out for fallen debris on the roads, which may add to the hazardous conditions.
Met Éireann said very strong winds and stormy weather will develop later tonight and early tomorrow, reaching average speeds of 30 to 45 mph (50 to 75 kmph), gusting 60 to 70 mph or more (95-110 kmph).
Winds will slowly ease later tomorrow. Scattered snow showers will occur overnight and tomorrow.
Very high seas (in excess of 10 metres) are expected along Atlantic coasts, which could cause coastal flooding, Met Éireann said.
It will be very cold and extremely windy tomorrow, with further wintry showers of hail, sleet and some snow.