Gardaí issue warning amid dangerous weather forecast

Gardaí have issued a warning and advice to motorists as Met Éireann forecast a wintry day with hail and snow showers likely in many areas.

A crash already occurred this morning on the M7 on the Offaly/Tipperary border during a heavy hail shower, leaving a section of the road closed for a number of hours.

With news of the forecast, An Garda Síochana have said: "Met Eireann have issued a weather warning for hailstones for this morning and afternoon 31st of January 2018 between 12pm and 3pm."
 
"Hailstones are a year round occurrence in Ireland and can create very dangerous driving conditions due to their unpredictable and localised nature.

The RSA have produced a short information video offering simple but effective advice on what to do if you encounter a sudden shower of hailstones on the road.

In addition, cruise control should be switched off when driving in hazardous weather conditions.

If you find yourself caught in a sudden downpour of hailstones, here are some tips to be aware of from the RSA:

- Reduce your speed without breaking 
- Warn other drivers with your hazard warning lights
- Avoid sudden steering movements or braking suddenly

Don’t forget to keep an eye on forecast and travel bulletins. For more information, check out this informative video from the RSA: