The Allgau region in the states of Bavaria and Baden-Wurttemberg is predicted to receive 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches) of fresh snow by Saturday night, while the Black Forest could see as much as 50 cm, forecasters say. Long-distance train services in the north are expected to resume operations from 10 a.m. (0900 GMT), according to national rail operator Deutsche Bahn.
Counties Clare, Kerry, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo will come under the warning from 4pm until 10pm on Sunday. Potential impacts during the warning will include some wave overtopping, loose objects being displaced, some fallen trees and branches and difficult travelling conditions. There are more cold days ahead, but Met Éireann has milder temperatures will arrive by the end of this week.
If rain does come across the country - it's a bit uncertain, but if that does happen - the rain, as it meets the cold air, could fall as sleet or snow for a short time before it turns back to rain, he said.
"These clear conditions will continue into tonight, with excellent flying conditions for Santa and his reindeer to deliver presents to all the children around Ireland. "We've told Santa it's going to be quite chilly tonight with lowest temperatures of -2 to +2 degrees, but he's reassured us that all the cookies and milk will help keep him warm. "Under clear skies, it might be possible to catch a peek of Santa as he travels over us tonight, so keep an eye out!"
But snow isn't guaranteed, Kidd said, noting snow could change to rain if temperatures increase even slightly over what's forecast for the next few days. Do expect a wet one either way," she said. "Whether it's rain or snow, it's going to be messy, so do expect that." Kidd said areas closer to Lake Ontario may see around two centimetes of snow, while places further north, such as Aurora and Newmarket, could get as much as 10 to 15 centimetres.