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The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued a warning to road users urging caution this Sunday and Monday, as Met Éireann has announced Orange and Yellow Weather Warnings for several counties, indicating wet and windy conditions.
Weather Warnings Issued
An Orange Rainfall Warning is in place for Cork and Waterford from 8 am to 6 pm on Sunday, with expectations of heavy rain, intense, and thundery downpours. Additionally, the warning extends to Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wexford from 1 pm to midnight on Sunday. The RSA advises that flooding, poor visibility, and difficult travel conditions are expected in these areas.
In addition, a Yellow Rain and Wind Warning has been issued for Munster from 5 am to 8 pm Sunday, and for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Wexford, and Wicklow from 12 pm Sunday to 2 am Monday. Heavy rain accompanied by strong, gusty winds may result in localised flooding, travel delays, and potential fallen branches or trees.
Road users in areas affected by the Orange Warning are strongly advised to check local traffic and weather conditions before beginning their journey.
Safety Advice for Road Users
The RSA has issued the following advice in light of the severe weather warnings:
For Motorists:
- Slow down and increase the braking distance between your vehicle and the one in front, particularly on high-speed roads prone to aquaplaning.
- Take extra care when driving behind larger vehicles that generate spray, reducing visibility.
- Avoid flooded roads and do not attempt to drive through water, as it could be deeper than it appears and may contain hidden dangers.
- Follow road closures and obey instructions from local councils or An Garda Síochána.
- After driving through water, brake gently to dry your brakes.
- Drive with dipped headlights at all times to increase visibility.
- Be vigilant for objects blown onto the road, and expect the unexpected.
- Watch for fallen debris and vehicles veering due to high winds.
- High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists should be extra cautious, as strong winds can affect vehicle control.
- Allow extra space between your vehicle and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists.
For Pedestrians, Cyclists, and Motorcyclists:
- Walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic if no footpath is available.
- Cyclists should ensure they have front and rear lights and wear high-visibility clothing.
- Exercise extra care when crossing roads or cycling in windy conditions to avoid being blown into traffic.
- Wear bright clothing and consider high-visibility materials to stay seen.
For more detailed advice on severe weather driving, visit the RSA’s website or check out their Facebook and Twitter pages. Video resources on driving in flooded conditions and strong winds can be found on the RSA’s YouTube channel.
For the latest weather updates, visit Met Éireann’s website.