08 December 2011
Road Safety Alert – Gale Force Winds
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising road users to be extremely careful if using the road today Thursday 8th December following a Severe Weather Warning from Met Eireann.
The forecast is for stormy conditions through Connacht and Ulster with gale force winds and damaging gusts of 100 to 140 km/h. Extremely windy elsewhere with gusts of 100 km/h at times. The warning is valid until 22:00 tonight.
In such conditions the RSA is advising motorists to drive with care and expect the unexpected.
- Watch out for falling/fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road and the reaction of other road users.
- Notify the Gardaí about fallen debris on the roadway. NEVER stop on a motorway to remove debris.
- Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds.
- High sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds.
- Expect gusts at open areas, where gaps in high buildings and hedgerows create a wind channel.
- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space.
Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to;
- Be seen. Wear bright clothing with reflective armbands or a reflective belt.
- Take extra care when near traffic or crossing the road in extremely windy conditions as sudden gusts can blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
- In extreme weather conditions it is best to avoid making a journey by road unless absolutely necessary.
Visit the RSA’s website for more information on Severe Weather Advice for road users.
ENDS
For further information please contact
RSA Communications Department – 096 25008