Drivers urged to take care as freezing temperatures bring icy road conditions

Motorists are warned to take it easily on the roads today wirh low temperatures in the area for most of the day.

It was below freezing for most of tonight and drivers should be wary of black ice.

There is a Status Yellow warning in place for many parts of the country with an additional snow advisory for Louth and the north east.

Met Eireann Meteorologist Ailis Hankinson urged people to allow extra time for journeys while the Garda advised for drivers to slow down.

While there has been sunny spells today the front and ice is slow to clear. 

The Met Office says tonight will be very cold with frost and icy stretches . The weather will change in the next 24 hours with rain coming in from the West.

With extremely low temperatures and hazardous conditions forecast, the Road Safety Authority is urging all road users to prepare in advance, take extra care and stay up to date on conditions.

  • Remember that your only contact with the road surface is through your tyres, so it is vital they are suitable for icy and snowy conditions. Check all tyres, including the spare, and replace them if the tread depth is below 3mm. Make sure tyres are inflated to the correct pressure.
  • Be safe and be seen by ensuring all headlights and taillights are working properly. Replace any broken bulbs.
  • Remove any build up of snow and ice from your vehicle before setting off.
  • Clear all windows and mirrors fully and carry a screen scraper and de-icer. Never use hot water on the windscreen as this can cause the glass to crack.
  • De-mist the inside of windows thoroughly before driving. Check that the windscreen washer system is working correctly and filled with an anti icing fluid.
  • Be prepared for sun glare by keeping sunglasses within easy reach.
  • If travelling long distances, check weather and road conditions not only at your starting point, but also at your destination and along the route, as conditions can vary significantly.
  • Ask yourself if your journey is essential and allow extra time for travel.

Meanwhile Gardai have confirmed that 16 new safety camera zones have now come into effect in County Louth from the start of 2026.

It brings to 1901 the number of such camera zones nationwide.

They are normally located in areas with a history of collisions and speeding. Details of the new Louth locations are available on the Garda.ie.

Mobile vans are used to catch drivers breaking the law in these zones.

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