Crisis Team To Meet As ‘Beast From The East’ Arrives In Ireland

This week is set to be absolutely baltic as a weather front from the Russian arctic arrives in Ireland. 

The 'Beast from the East' will bring temperatures as low as minus 10, as well as freezing winds, snow, ice and sleet showers. 

The National Emergency Co-Ordination Group (NECG) is set to meet today to discuss plans to deal with the severe conditions, The Independent reports. 

In Dublin, 84 extra beds will be provided for the homeless, while outreach teams will also work across Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.

"In relation to our most vulnerable and in order to ensure that arrangements are in place across the country, so that all homeless individuals and rough sleepers have shelter and accommodation during the forthcoming cold spell, I have requested the department make contact with local authorities and a range of homeless agencies in relation to arrangements for rough sleepers," said Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy. 

Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow weather warning for this week, but that could be upgraded to a Status Red warning from Wednesday.

If a Status Red warning is issued, schools may have to close as a precaution. 

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