The bad weather conditions earlier this week have caused significant disruption across the country. Another weather warning is now in place with significant wind and rainfall anticipated over the coming days.
Our advice to clients is to assess the weather conditions carefully and plan accordingly. You can keep up to date with weather warnings and alerts at
https://www.met.ie/nationalwarnings/default.asp
Flooding
- If a flood warning is issued, listen to the local news or check information provided by the emergency services, including evacuation advice.
- If evacuation is necessary or flooding imminent, close the main gas valve and turn off all utilities at the main power switch.
During a Flood
- Do not walk through moving water. As little as 6 inches (15 centimetres) of moving water may cause you to fall.
- If you must walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
- Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
Heavy rain
- Turn your headlights on – the Highway Code says you must use them when visibility is seriously reduced (less than 100m).
- Use fog lights if you like, but switch them off when visibility improves.
- Leave twice as much space between you and the car in front – it takes longer to stop in wet conditions
- If your steering feels light due to aquaplaning, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
- If you break down do not prop the bonnet open while you wait. Rain-soaked electrics can make it harder to start the engine.
Floods and standing water
- Try to avoid standing water if you possible.
- Do not drive into flood water that is moving or more than 10cm (4 inches) deep. Let approaching cars pass first.
- Drive slowly and steadily to avoid creating a bow wave.
- Test your brakes as soon as you can afterwards.
- Fast-moving water is very powerful – take care or your car could be swept away.
Be cautious, take it easy on the road and take care when travelling or working outdoors this week.