Yellow alert for thunderstorms and heavy rain

Temperatures set to hit 30 degrees or more

TEMPERATURES across the West are set to hit 30 degrees today but the hot weather also brings the risk of heavy downpours.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising road users to take extra care when using the roads, as Met Éireann has issued yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms, with the risk of torrential downpours and localised flooding.

The Yellow Thunderstorm warning is in place for Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Donegal and Sligo from 3pm today, Thursday to 6pm Friday. There is a risk of torrential downpours and localised flooding.

Possible impacts include:

Localised flooding is possible this evening and tomorrow across Connacht, Ulster, and parts of Leinster and Munster. Intense downpours may result in the rapid flooding of roads, properties, and low-lying areas with little warning.

This comes on the back of the ongoing Yellow High Temperature Warning for Ireland, in place from 12:00 on Tuesday to 9am on Saturday, with temperatures exceeding 25 degrees and possibly reaching 30 degrees today.

Advice to motorists

Slow down and allow a greater braking distance between you and the vehicle in front in wet weather conditions. This is especially important on high-speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways, where there is an increased risk of aquaplaning.

Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles, as they generate a considerable amount of spray, reducing visibility. Hold back to where you can see their mirrors.

If the road ahead is flooded, choose another route. Do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow may be deeper than expected. The verge may have subsided, and there may be fallen trees or branches that are not visible.

Always follow recommended routes and obey road closure signage put in place by local authorities or An Garda Síochána.

After driving through water, drive slowly with your foot lightly on the brake pedal for a short distance to help dry the brakes.

Drive with dipped headlights at all times.

Advice for pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter users, and motorcyclists

Walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic, if there are no footpaths.

Cyclists should ensure that they and their bikes are visible by using front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back) and wearing bright or high-visibility clothing.

Be Safe. Be Seen. Visibility is reduced in poor weather conditions. Stay safe by ensuring you are visible at all times.