With Cork facing a Status Orange rain and snow warning this weekend, the Road Safety Authority urges road users to be cautious when driving in icy conditions.
Met Éireann’s warning is in effect from 5pm on Saturday, January 4 until 5pm on Sunday, January 5, and conditions are expected to be very cold, windy, and wet, with low temperatures and heavy rainfall forecasted.
Due to the expected weather conditions, the following warnings are in place:
- Wintry showers and icy surfaces will create difficult travel conditions across the weekend, with heavy rain on Saturday and wintry showers on Sunday.
- Driving conditions will be hazardous, even on gritted roads. Drivers are urged to slow down, exercise caution, remain aware of other road users (especially pedestrians and cyclists), and allow extra time for travel.
- Footpaths are expected to be extremely hazardous and slippery due to ice.
With the extreme low temperatures and multi-hazardous conditions expected, the RSA is urging all road users to be prepared, and have issued some tips on how to stay safe on the road:
- Motorists should check their tyres, including the spare wheel, and replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm.
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Make sure headlights and taillights are all in working order.
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Clear windows and mirrors before driving and carry a screen scraper and deicer, never use hot water on the windscreen.
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It is advised to carry a high-vis vest, torch, first aid kit and shovel in the boot.
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When driving, motorists should avoid harsh braking, steering and acceleration, watch out for black ice, and leave extra distance between other vehicles.
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If you slide, do not panic or jam on the brakes. Instead, steer gently into the slide – if the car slides to the right, steer to the right.
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Motorcyclists should wear approved helmets and a high-vis vest.
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Cyclists and E-scooters users should consider cancelling their journey if it is not essential, or take alternative transport.
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Pedestrians should be extremely careful on footpaths and walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths, while wearing appropriate footwear and reflective clothing.
Cork City Council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team is closely monitoring the situation and is in regular communication with Met Éireann.
Cork City Council has also activated its Winter Maintenance Plan, which includes salting and gritting key roads in the city. Information on gritting and salting routes can be found here: Winter Maintenance – Cork City Council.
For advice on severe weather driving tips, please see advice on the RSA website.