The Road Safety Authority is advising all road users to prepare for hazardous conditions on roads and footpaths as Met Eireann has issued a warning for low temperatures and ice. This will include low temperatures by day and sharp or severe frosts and icy patches at night from Thursday and into the weekend for all of Ireland. There is also a risk of hailstones and snow in some parts of the country. 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 icy roads and be extra cautious on untreated road surfaces.
Road users should also watch out for black ice. If the road looks polished or glossy it could be, “black ice” one of winter’s worst hazards: Black Ice is difficult to see. It is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. The sheltered / shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls are prone to black ice.
The advice for drivers to deal with icy road conditions is.
Met Eireann is also warning of a risk of hailstone showers, especially in the west and in Donegal. The difficulty with hail showers is their unpredictability and localised nature.
There is also a risk of sleet and snow in Donegal. Drivers in these conditions are advised to:
The changing weather conditions will also pose challenges for pedestrians and cyclists. The advice for these road users in icy conditions is as follows.
Please stay safe and look out for all road users.
For more weather updates visit Met Eireann’s website here