[Warning] Motorists warned over subzero temperatures

Victor

http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/0406/weather.html

Motorists warned over subzero temperatures
Sunday, 6 April 2008 18:54

Motorists are being warned to take extra care on the roads as temperatures are forecast to plummet to -4C overnight as a cold snap descends on the country.

Brian Farrell of the Road Safety Authority says drivers should slow down as icy conditions are forecast.

Snowfalls in England have led to flight delays at Heathrow and Gatwick.

The total number of flights cancelled at Heathrow's Terminal 5 today had risen to 126. Of these cancellations, 114 (57 return flights; one in and one out) were due to snow, and the remaining 12 were down to BAA's technical fault.

Snow had also led to the cancellation of 32 BA flights (16 return flights) at Gatwick Airport.

Road access to the airport has also been hampered by snow.

Ferry sailings have also been disrupted by the weather.

This morning's Irish Ferries Jonathon Swift sailing from Dublin to Holyhead and today's 2.30pm sailing have been cancelled.

All other Irish Ferries sailings and all Stena Line services are operating normally.

The wintry conditions, which included snowfalls in parts of the country early today, have also caused the cancellation of the Co Roscommon ploughing championships in Kiltoom today.

The event, which attracts up to 5,000 people, was due to take place on a farm near Athlone. Based on today's forecast, the organising committee decided yesterday to defer the event until 27 April.

Forecasters say there is an 80% chance of heavy snow and widespread icy roads across Northern Ireland today.

Emily Gleeson of Met Éireann says the wintry weather will continue for the next couple of days.

There were frost and icy stretches in places this morning and drivers were being advised to drive with care.

Some heavy snowfalls are expected, especially across the northern half of the country, along with a risk of thunder.

However, there will be sunny spells also, which should clear any snow from lower levels.

Age Action has urged members of the general public to be good neighbours by keeping an eye out for their older relatives, friends and neighbours during the current freezing weather.

We would encourage people to drop in to ensure their older neighbour is okay and has sufficient food and fuel,'' Age Action spokesman Eamon Timmins said.