Go-slow warning as snow and ice threaten

Motorists are being warned to slow down over the next few days when snowy and icy conditions are expected to grip most parts of the country.

Met Éireann is forecasting snow for many parts today and tonight. And while the rest of the week is expected to be drier, frost will continue to be a major hazard.

Mr Gerald Fleming, of Met Éireann, said that up to half a foot of snow would fall in some areas. The south-west would be most affected, with Cork, Kerry, Clare and west Limerick facing the worst of the cold spell.

But the eastern seaboard will not escape the wintry conditions. "There will also be showers of snow and sleet in the east and on the south coast," he said.

"The sleet will be found more along coastal areas, but certainly on high ground there will be snow. Wicklow will get some of the showers moving in from the Irish Sea. But in Dublin there is less chance of snow, although even a little there can cause chaos".

While the second half of the week will be drier, it will also be colder, bringing frost to most parts.

"So any snow that falls during that time will be around for a while; it won't just melt away quickly," Mr Fleming said.

AA Roadwatch has warned motorists to slow down or face lethal consequences. A spokesman, Mr Conor Faughnan, said icy weather looked set to lead to treacherous road conditions in most parts of the country for the rest of the week.

"Particularly on secondary roads ice can linger well after daybreak," Mr Faughnan said. "We would urge people to make a special effort to keep their speed down and stay safe. Ice can catch you very suddenly, and one mistake can be lethal."

He added that drivers should also wear seat-belts at all times and leave extra distance between their own vehicles and those in front.

"Braking distances increase and can vary dramatically when there is ice," said Mr Faughnan. "Drivers need to be constantly alert. A road surface that looks perfect could harbour icy patches in shaded areas or under bridges, especially on secondary roads."

In order to avoid skidding motorists are advised to use the highest gear they can.