Council's issues advice ahead of cold snap and Status Yellow Alert for snow and ice
Meath County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment team has met to put preparations in place after Met Eireann ssued a Status Yellow – Snow Ice warning for Leinster, valid from 5pm on Saturday, 4th January, to 5pm on Sunday, 5th January. Full details from Met Eireann here
The Council has said it has sufficient salt to ensure that designated routes are gritted. You can view the gritting routes here.
"Snow ploughs have been attached to the gritting trucks to clear any snow accumulation if necessary.
"We urge motorists to adjust their driving to suit the road conditions and the prevailing weather.
Key Safety Messages:
Wintry showers and icy surfaces will lead to difficult travel conditions
Driving conditions will be hazardous, even where roads are gritted, slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey
Take extra care while walking: footpaths etc. can be extremely hazardous/slippery due to ice
Check on elderly, vulnerable and isolated neighbours
Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112
The Be Winter Ready website https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/aa78b9-be-winter-ready provides further advice on preparing for severe weather.
People are advised to prepare for this period of severe weather including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.
Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie.
Uisce Éireann Customers can check their website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via our 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. People can also sign up online to free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies - see www.water.ie.
People are advised to conserve water, and visit https://www.water.ie for advice
Farmers are advised to take all precautions when dealing with livestock and possibly working alone
People travelling long journeys check weather/ road conditions not just where they are starting from, but at their destination and along the route, as conditions may vary significantly.
Meanwhile Meath Gardai have issued additional advice for motorists travelling in icy conditions.
"With the frosty weather upon us now, we would like to advise motorists never to leave your vehicles unattended when it is unlocked and the engine is running whilst it is defrosting in the morning during cold weather.
"When defrosting your vehicle, defrost externally by using de-icer or if you turn on your car please remain inside your car and take the time to defrost windscreens thoroughly. Make sure to have full frost free 180 degree vision with a clear windscreen and front & side windows.
"If you need to use your car for essential travel during the current cold spell ensure your car has been fully de-iced and warmed before driving, and ensure tyres and wipers are adequate for cold driving conditions.
"Make sure to give yourselves a few extra minutes in the morning to get your car defrosted and ready for your journey."