Motorists warned of heavy downpours
Motorists were urged to take extra care on the roads tonight amid a warning of severe downpours in the south of the country.
The National Safety Council advised all road users, especially drivers, to exercise caution following a Weather Advisory from Met Éireann.
The heavy rainfall is expected to begin in the south tonight and continue throughout Friday and into early Saturday morning.
According to Met Éireann, rain fronts associated with an active depression will bring heavy downpours, which will be most severe in southern counties, particularly in the southwest.
Rainfall of up to 60mm is expected in the Cork and Kerry region between Thursday evening and Saturday morning.
The southern part of the country is expected to suffer in the region of 30mm to 40mm of rain, with rainfall in other counties expected to be up to 25mm.
The rain is expected to ease and gradually clear during Saturday.
The National Safety Council warned the expected rainfall will result in reduced visibility, flooding and slippery road surfaces making driving particularly hazardous.
It advised drivers to:
:: Read the road and adjust your speed to the conditions,
:: Allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front,
:: Use dipped headlights at all times of poor visibility,
:: Check tyres to ensure minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and ensure correct tyre pressures,
:: Ensure your wipers are in good working order,
:: Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists,
:: Drive with care and caution – expect the unexpected.
Vulnerable Road users are advised to:
:: Be seen. Wear bright clothing with reflective armbands or a reflective belt, or carry a torch with you while walking,
:: Walk on the footpath, not in the street. Walk on the right hand side of the road, facing traffic if there is no footpath,
:: Consult weather broadcasts before making any journey.
