Motorists and road users urged to prepare for wintry conditions this week
Met Éireann has issued a nationwide weather advisory for wintry hazards including frost and ice
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is asking road users to prepare for hazardous conditions on roads and footpaths from today, Monday 18 November, as Met Eireann has issued a nationwide weather advisory for wintry hazards including frost and ice and the potential for sleet, snow and hail throughout the week.
After the recent prolonged spell of mild weather road users are being advised not to get caught out by a drop in temperatures.
They should expect hazardous conditions with a potential for reduced visibility. Road users are also urged to exercise caution particularly on untreated road surfaces.
On Monday evening snowfall accumulations are possible in Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim and Monaghan from 7pm to 8am Tuesday Morning. This could lead to poor visibility and difficult travelling conditions.
There is a low temperature/Ice warning for Ireland from 8pm Tuesday to 10am Wednesday and 8pm Wednesday to 10am Thursday where it will be very cold with widespread frost and icy stretches.
This could lead to hazardous conditions on roads and paths and some travel disruption.
Road users are being advised to check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on any journeys. The RSA has the following practical advice for road users in snowy and icy conditions:
Drivers are advised to:
• Remove all snow and Ice from your vehicle before commencing your journey.
• Clear windows and mirrors before you set out, use a screen scraper and de-icer. Do not use hot water on the windscreen as it can crack the glass.
• Remember it takes longer to stop in and snow and icy conditions. Slow down, use all controls delicately and leave extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. Avoid over steering and harsh braking and harsh acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends.
• Drivers of high sided vehicles like trucks and buses are particularly at risk from both the dangers posed by snow but also from the high winds associated with heavy snow conditions.
• In snowy conditions, visibility will be reduced. Do not drive on the tail-lights of the vehicle in front.
• Use dipped headlights at all times, and fog lights in heavy snow to ensure you are seen by other motorists (but don’t forget to turn them off afterwards).
• Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, people who cycle and ride motorcycles and allow extra space.
• Check tyres and replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm. Check they’re inflated to the correct tyre pressure.
Pedestrians are also advised to wear appropriate footwear, and to walk on the footpath, not in the street. They are also being urged to make sure they are visible by wearing bright clothing and wearing high visibility material.
For more advise, please visit the .
