Road users warned over extreme weather
Motorists were today warned to take extra care on the roads in the coming days with blizzards, freezing temperatures and gale force winds expected across northern counties.
Following a severe weather alert from Met Eireann, the National Safety Council advised drivers to avoid travelling unless journeys were absolutely necessary.
Alan Richardson, acting chief executive of the council, said motorists should expect the unexpected if the snow arrives.
“Bad weather such as ice and snow can catch road users off guard. Therefore in extreme weather conditions it is best to avoid making a journey by road unless absolutely necessary,” he said.
“If driving in such conditions is unavoidable be prepared. The golden rule is drive with care and caution – expect the unexpected".
Forecasters at Met Eireann warned arctic winds could bring snow falls of between 3cm and 8cm from Thursday midday to Friday midnight in Donegal, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim and Cavan.
Strong to gale force northerly winds could also lead to snow drifts and blizzards.
The National Safety Council advised drivers to check local and national forecasts before setting out. Tell someone what time you expect to arrive at a destination, keep windows and mirrors clear and carry a screen scraper and de-icer and to carry a mobile phone for emergencies.
The council offered tips for driving in snow and icy conditions. Drivers were warned to keep speed down as braking distances are much longer in the snow, use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin, manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking and acceleration.
Experts said that to avoid wheel locking when braking, drivers should drop into a lower gear earlier than normal, let the speed drop and brake gently.
The council also said minor skids could be corrected by releasing the brakes fully, steering in the direction of the skid and easing off the accelerator.
Road users can check road conditions on the National Roads Authority’s Road weather information website www.nra.ie/RoadWeatherInformation.
