RSA warns motorists as Mayo set for yellow heat warning
The Road Safety Authority is urging road users to take care over the coming days as Met Éireann has issued a Yellow High Temperature Warning covering Mayo and the rest of the country.
The warning runs from midday on Tuesday until 9 a.m. on Friday. Temperatures are expected to exceed 25 degrees, with highs of up to 30 degrees possible on Thursday.
With clear skies and sustained high temperatures forecast, the RSA has issued a series of recommendations for drivers and other road users.
Motorists are advised to wear sunglasses to reduce the risk of sun glare, with particular caution urged when travelling east in the morning and west in the evening.
Drivers should also carry adequate water supplies, as delays could leave road users stuck in traffic during hot conditions. The RSA noted that children and pets are especially vulnerable during periods of high heat.
Windscreens should be kept clear of grease and grime, both inside and out, and drivers are advised to keep window washer fluid topped up to clear insects and road dust.
The RSA is also asking drivers to watch for vulnerable road users — pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists — and to slow down and allow extra space when overtaking.
Pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter users and motorcyclists have been advised to be conscious of sun glare, particularly when crossing roads or approaching junctions, and to follow public health advice on sun cream use while out walking or cycling.
The RSA highlighted that summer remains the most dangerous season on Irish roads. With long, bright days and an absence of obvious hazards, drivers can become complacent.
The authority said pedestrian, cyclist and motorcyclist casualties tend to spike during the summer months as fine weather draws more people onto the roads. Drivers have been urged to remain alert, slow down and expect the unexpected.
Further severe weather driving advice is available on the RSA website, along with safety videos produced in partnership with Teresa Mannion. Weather updates can be found at met.ie.