There will be extensive cloud cover during Wednesday night, with dry spells and a few showers, according to weather bureau Weeronline.

In the east, temperatures will hover around freezing and some showers are likely to fall as wet snow, which could make roads slippery. In the west it will be between 1° and 3°, with some rain, although snow residue may still cause icy patches. Where skies briefly clear, the temperature will drop to below zero.

On Thursday it will be largely dry, with cloudy periods, occasional sunshine and  local showers. Slippery conditions will remain due to lingering snow and, especially in the east, refreezing.

A moderate south to southwesterly wind will keep coastal areas milder at 2° to 5°, and temperatures will rise little during the day. Later in the afternoon, rain will reach the south and spread northeast as the evening progresses.

Friday will be overcast with wintry showers but the temperature will drop overnight, increasing the likelihood of more snow.

Wintry conditions are expected to persist on Saturday, with cloud, scattered snow showers and occasional sunshine. In the northeast and east, temperatures may remain below freezing throughout the day. Overnight temperatures are expected to fall below -5°, with local lows of -9° to -10° in places.

Sunday will be very cold, with widespread morning frost. It will remain mostly dry with cloudy intervals and sunny spells during the day and most areas are expected to stay below zero. A severe frost is likely in the evening.

After the weekend, Monday is expected to remain cold, with frost and sub-zero temperatures all day in the northeast. In the south, temperatures are expected to edge just above freezing.

Cloudy conditions will persist, with some snow likely to develop. Temperatures may gradually rise in the days that follow, but after a prolonged cold and snowy spell, the pace of any thaw remains uncertain.