There are concerns for those sleeping rough as temperatures plummet.

More Status Yellow ice warnings have been issued with snow forecast for some parts of the country.

With potential night time lows of -5C, many people are gearing up for the cold snap.

For those who are sleeping rough, the conditions are hugely dangerous for both physical and mental health.

As well as record high homeless figures, the death of a rough sleeper was recorded in Dublin city centre last week, with homeless groups and charities saying their fears are growing as the weather deteriorates.

Cork Simon Community Communications Manager Paul Sheehan said their shelter is already completely full.

"We are always concerned for people's health at any time of year," he said.

"When they're sleeping rough it can impact on a person's physical and mental health very quickly.

"When the weather is this cold and the temperatures dip below zero, we're particularly concerned".

Conor Roe from Focus Ireland. Image: Newstalk/Naughton

Conor Roe who runs Focus Ireland's coffee shop in Dublin's Temple Bar said they've had to extend their hours.

"We would normally open from 10.30am until 2.30pm and then reopen in the afternoon from 4pm to 6.30pm," he said.

"Due to the cold weather, we’ve been in discussions with the Dublin Region Homeless Executive to open up until 10pm to match the hours of the freephone," he added.

The advice is if you see someone sleeping rough do not assume the that relevant group or authorities know of them, and make contact to ensure they can be checked on.

Reporting by: Sheila Naughton

Main image: A person sleeping rough in Dublin, 28-1-22. Image: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie