Weather alert for strong winds

Peak gusts of 110 - 130km/h are being forecast for the west coast and exposed locations in the midlands tonight and early Thursday morning with some moderate damage possible.

Later today there will be thaw which may cause some minor flooding.

Later on Thursday the very strong winds will abate somewhat but there could be passing squally showers of rain, sleet and more snow. Thunder has also been forecast.

Friday and Saturday are set to remain very cold, dropping to as low as -2 C at night.

Meanwhile more snow is forecast for next week.