12 September 2011
Met Eireann Weather Alert - Severe Winds
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has received a Weather Warning from Met Éireann advising of extreme wind or stormy conditions today 12th September 2011. Southwest winds with mean speeds of 50 to 80 km/h with gusts ranging from 90 to 130km/h in parts of Ulster and Connacht.
Further to Met Eireann’s weather alert the RSA are warning motorists to be extra vigilant and have issued the following advice:
If driving in stormy conditions drivers should;
- 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
- Allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front (i.e. don’t tailgate), especially when driving behind heavy goods vehicles
- Allow extra space between you and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists
- Use dipped headlights at all times of poor visibility
- Check tyres to ensure minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and correct tyre pressure
The RSA is asking that HGV’s, buses and any other large vehicles be particularly careful when driving in these conditions as they are more at risk in strong winds due to the height of their vehicle. Maintain a safe speed to ensure contact with the road and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
Vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are advised to check local weather forecasts before making journeys, if necessary consider delaying your journey until the weather improves. If you must take to the roads, watch out for falling debis, and keep in off the road when meeting traffic. Always be seen by wearing bright clothing with a high vis vest, reflective armbands, a reflective belt or carry a torch.
Road users may also check local road conditions by listening to local radio stations for weather updates, or on www.met.ie.
For further information, please contact:
RSA Communications Department 096 25008