In February and March 2018, Ireland was paralyzed by an exceptionally heavy snowfall caused by the weather phenomenon known as the “Beast from the East.” It was one of the most severe winter storms in the country’s history, creating chaos on the streets of Dublin and beyond.
A Snow Apocalypse in Ireland
Ireland, known for its mild and rainy climate, rarely experiences significant snowfall. However, in 2018, freezing air masses from Siberia collided with Storm Emma, bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds. Snow accumulation reached up to 50 cm in some areas, which led to widespread travel disruptions in a country ill-prepared for such conditions.
Road Chaos and Disruptions
Documentary photos taken in February and March 2018 show Dublin’s streets buried under thick layers of snow and ice. Drivers were caught off guard by the extreme weather—many cars were stranded in deep snow, and road services struggled to keep up. Major roads, including the M50, became nearly impassable, and public transport came to a standstill.
Consequences of the Snowstorm
Schools and government offices were closed for several days.
Food supply issues – supermarket shelves were emptied.
Thousands of households lost electricity.
Airports, including Dublin Airport, canceled most flights.
Hundreds of people were stranded on roads, unable to reach their homes.
A Historic Weather Event in Ireland
The 2018 “Beast from the East” remains one of the most extreme weather events in Irish history. While the snowy landscapes were breathtaking, the storm highlighted the country’s lack of preparedness for such severe conditions.
Rafal Rozalski.
