Motorists urged to take care as yellow weather warnings issued
DOWNPOURS Weather warning comes into force in Cavan and Monaghan on Wednesday
The Road Safety Authority (RSA), is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads Tuesday evening and all day tomorrow as Met Eireann has issued weather warnings for heavy rain.
There are Yellow Rainfall warnings for Cavan, Dublin, Kildare, Louth, Meath, Monaghan with heavy rain on Wednesday and Wednesday night, with the possibility of thundery downpours which will lead to localised flooding and some disruption.
There is also an Orange rainfall warning for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Wexford, and Wicklow from 10pm this evening until midnight Wednesday where heavy rain with the possibility of thundery downpours, will lead to localised flooding.
Advice for motorists
- Drivers need to slow down and allow a greater braking distance between themselves and the vehicle in front in wet weather conditions. This is especially important on high speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways where there is increased danger of aquaplaning
- Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces your visibility, hold back to where you can see their mirrors.
- If the road ahead is flooded choose another route, do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think. The verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible.
- Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic that have been put there by the local council or An Garda Síochána.
- After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance - this helps to dry the brakes.
- Drive with dipped headlights at all times.
Advice to Pedestrians, Cyclists and motorcyclists:
- Visibility and light is reduced in poor weather conditions. Keep safe by making sure you can be seen. Wear bright clothing and consider wearing high visibility material.
- Walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths.
- Cyclist should ensure that they and their bike are visible to other road users by investing in a good set of front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back) and by wearing clothes that help you be seen on your bike, consider wearing high visibility material.