Met Éireann have issued an Orange wind warning for coastal regions today (Friday, 23rd December) with Donegal, Mayo and Galway expected to be worst affected with gusts of up to 120 kilometres an hour expected.
Strong southerly winds are expected this morning with strong westerly winds forecast for this afternoon and evening.
Storm Barbara has already caused Christmas travel chaos as
Irish Ferries cancelled several sailings between Dublin and Holyhead today.
The
Road Safety Authority (RSA), is asking road users to exercise caution as a yellow wind warning is in place with gusts of up to 90-110 kilometres an hour forecast. They advise those travelling to check local weather and traffic conditions and be aware of the conditions before setting out on a trip.
With added risks posed by wet or flooded roads the RSA has the following advice:
- Beware of objects being blown out onto the road. Expect the unexpected.
- Watch out for washed out roads, earth slides, broken water or sewer mains, loose or downed electrical wires, and fallen or falling objects.
- Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds. High sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds.
- It takes longer to stop in wet conditions so slow down and leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front.
- Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces your visibility.
- Be aware of the danger of aquaplaning especially on roads with speed limits of 100 km per hour and 120 per hour.
- If the road ahead is flooded choose another route, do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think.
- After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance - this helps to dry the brakes.
- Take extra care when crossing the road or cycling in extremely windy conditions as a sudden gust of wind could blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
For more advice on driving in today's severe weather check out the
RSA Facebook or
Twitter. Met Eireann will have regular weather updates on Storm Barbara throughout the day.
Please take care on the roads if you are driving home for Christmas.
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