The HSE has warned of potential disruptions to health services in some parts of the country as a result of the severe cold weather.

Met Eireann has issued a Status Red weather warning for Dublin, Meath, Kildare, Louth and Wicklow, after heavy snowfalls on Tuesday night led to accumulations of snow of up to 16cm in some areas.

The HSE has said that its National Crisis Management Team is monitoring the situation on an hourly basis. It emphasised that while it will continue to do everything to maintain all essential services, particularly those to vulnerable people in the community, disruption is inevitable.

It reminded people to check that they are stocked up with any medicines and healthcare supplies that they may need.

Updates from the HSE are available here

Members of the public are also being asked to watch out for older or vulnerable people in their community.

ALONE, the charity that supports older people to age at home, has warned that cold temperatures can have a serious effect on many older people, especially those living on their own, those with limited mobility and those with health issues.

The charity has volunteers and staff ready to offer assistance and can advise on issues relating to heating, food and medication. For more information, call (01) 679 1032 or click here