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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Michelle Cullen

Irish drivers warned of dangerous road change during hot weather and advice to follow

The Road Safety Authority of Ireland has issued advice for road users after Met Eireann confirmed that temperatures could rise to 32 degrees in places over the coming days.

Met Eireann has issued a high temperature advisory as a hot spell arrives on Sunday and into early next week.

Daytime temperatures will widely reach the high twenties, possibly exceeding 30 degrees in some locations.

READ MORE: Met Eireann issue rare seven-day notice as 'uncomfortably warm' heat with temperatures above 30C set to blast Ireland

The advisory will remain in place until Wednesday, July 20.

The RSA has reminded drivers to be aware of the dangers posed by ‘sun glare’ as they can result in drivers becoming temporarily dazzled or blinded by the intensity and brightness of the sun.

Driving in the sunshine (gettyimages.ie)

As clear sunny conditions and high temperatures are forecast over the next number of days, the RSA is advising drivers to:

  • Reduce the risk of sun glare and of being dazzled by wearing sunglasses. Be aware of the dangers of sun glare when travelling east in the mornings and west later in the day.
  • Be prepared and ensure you have adequate supplies of water, as any delays to journeys could result in road users being stuck in traffic for a period of time in hot conditions. Children and pets are particularly at risk during these hot spells of weather.
  • Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out. Make sure you have plenty of window washer fluid to clear flies/insects and excess dust from the road when driving.
  • Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. Slow down and allow extra space when passing.

Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are also advised to:

  • Beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at junctions.
  • Follow current health messaging around the use of sunblock when out walking and cycling.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) also warned: “Road surface temperatures will rise significantly in the hot weather and surface dressed roads (“tar and chips”) will be prone to softening of the bitumen.

“This will lead to bitumen slicks occurring on more minor roads.

“Road users are advised to slow down and exercise caution when braking in such situations.”

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