A warning has been issued about a dangerous and rare weather event that can leave people “temporarily dazzled or blinded”.
Met Eireann has forecast both sunny clear days, as well as icy roads, over the weekend.
As a result, the Road Safety Authority has issued an urgent warning to road users about the dangers posed by ‘sun glare’.
The rare event happens when the sun is low in the horizon and the angle of the direct sunlight creates a strong glare across the windshield, making it incredibly difficult to see anything in front of you.
An RSA spokesperson said: “This can result in drivers being temporarily dazzled or blinded by the intensity and brightness of a low sun on the horizon.”
With this in mind, the agency is reminding road users of what to do when driving in such conditions.
For drivers:
- Minimise risk by wearing sun glasses
- Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out
- Add windshield washer fluid to the water in the reservoir and check that the wipers are not worn away or damaged. Replace them if they are.
- Reduce your speed. Slowing down on the approach to junctions, corners and bends is critical.
Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to:
- Beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at junctions.
A separate warning has been issued about icy conditions. In its latest forecast, Met Eireann has forecast subzero temperatures, frost and ice overnight this weekend.
Its forecast for Friday night reads: “Cold, dry and clear tonight with widespread frost and icy patches forming as temperatures fall back to between -3C and 0C.”
Looking ahead to Saturday, it says: “Tomorrow will be a dry and sunny day. After a cold and frosty start, afternoon temperatures will range between 7C and 10C as light to moderate northeast winds fall light and variable.
“Cold and mostly dry on Saturday night with just the chance of an isolated shower along eastern and southeastern coasts. Lowest temperatures of -3C to -1C, coldest in the west of the country with frost and ice forming again in near calm conditions.”
There will be more of the same on Sunday. Met Eireann says: “A cloudier day on Sunday. It will stay mainly dry with light, isolated showers in the east. Afternoon temperatures of 7C to 10C in moderate east or southeast winds.
“Another cold night on Sunday night with clear spells and isolated light showers. Lowest temperatures of 0C to -2C with a moderate southeast breeze.”
The RSA has issued separate advice for motorists driving in icy conditions:
- Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out, carry a screen scraper and de-icer. Do not use hot water on the windscreen as it can crack the glass.
- Slow down, you need to give yourself time and space if you need to react to a loss of traction should you skid on ice
- Watch out for "black ice." If the road looks polished or glossy it could be, black ice” one of winter's worst hazards: Black Ice is difficult to see! It is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. It can occur especially in sheltered / shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls.
- Use dipped headlights at all times of poor visibility to ensure you are seen by other motorists
- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space.
Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to:
- While walking on footpaths and in public places, or entering and exiting your vehicle, don’t underestimate the danger of ice. Many slips and falls happen in places people regard as safe and secure, typically outside their front door, on the doorstep, on the path or while getting out of the car. Take extra care.
Fore more advice on severe weather driving tips, check the RSA’s website or social media pages. Met Eireann has the latest weather updates on its website.
