STORM ALERT: Kilkenny motorists and pedestrians warned of road hazards as Lorenzo approaches
By COLIN BARTLEY
KILKENNY motorists and pedestrians are being asked to take special care on the roads today as Storm Lorenzo hits.
Met Éireann have issued a yellow weather warning for Kilkenny for strong winds with gust up to 120kph and heavy rain which could cause flooding. Authorities fear there could be damage to property and trees felled by the force of the storm.
Local authorites around the country are issuing warnings, Kilkenny council was frantically clearing drains yesterday, while some airlines have already cancelled flights today.
With this in mind the Road Safety Authority (RSA), is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads, to check local weather and traffic conditions and be aware of the conditions before setting out on a trip.
They have issued the following advice for motorists to be aware of in windy and wet conditions, which could bring about spot flooding and fallen debris;
| Beware of objects blown out onto the road. Expect road conditions to change quickly in heavy rain and high winds |
| Watch out for falling/fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road in high winds or to avoid hazards |
| Be extra cautious near high sided vehicles and motorcyclists, as they are particularly vulnerable to strong winds |
| Allow extra space between yourself and vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and motorcyclists |
| It takes longer to stop a vehicle on wet roads so slow down and allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front |
| Be aware of the danger of aquaplaning especially on roads with speed limits of 100 km/h and 120 km/h |
| Use dipped headlights at all times to ensure you are seen by other motorists |
| If the road ahead is flooded choose another route, do not attempt to drive through it |
| Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic. |
| Dry your brakes after driving through water by driving slowly with your foot on the brake pedal |
The RSA is advising pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists to wear hi-vis clothing and for cyclists to have a good set of front and rear lights so they can be seen by all other road users.
