RSA advises motorists to take 'extreme care' during Storm Ashley

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising all road users to take extreme care over the weekend as Met Éireann has issued Orange and Yellow weather warnings as Storm Ashley approaches.

Storm Ashley is set to bring very strong and gusty southerly winds around the country, coupled with high spring tides this weekend.

A Status Orange wind warning will be in place in Co Galway and Co Mayo from 12pm Sunday until 9pm, while the rest of the Republic will be under a Status Yellow wind warning, valid from 10am Sunday until midnight.

Coastal flooding and large coastal waves are expected, as well as dangerous conditions at sea and dangerous travelling conditions.

The RSA is warning of difficult road conditions with the potential for fallen trees and debris as well as damaged power lines. Road users in areas affected are advised to exercise caution and check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

There is a Yellow wind warning for Ireland from 10am Sunday until midnight Sunday.

The following advice is being given to motorists because of the weather warnings:

• Drivers need to slow down and allow a greater braking distance between themselves and the vehicle in front in wet weather conditions;
• This is especially important on high-speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways where there is increased danger of aquaplaning;
• Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles, as they generate a considerable amount of spray, which reduces your visibility;
• Hold back to where you can see their mirrors;
• If the road ahead is flooded, choose another route. Do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think. The verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible;
• Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic that have been put there by the local council or An Garda Síochána;
• After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance - this helps to dry the brakes;
• Be Safe. Be Seen. Drive with dipped headlights at all times to ensure that you are visible and that you can see other road users;
• Beware of objects being blown out onto the road. Expect the unexpected;
• Watch out for falling / fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road;
• Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds. High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds;
• Drivers should allow extra space between themselves and vulnerable road users such as people cycling and motorcyclists as they may be blown off course by strong winds.