Ireland is set to be hit with thundery downpours in the coming hours, leading to localised flooding in some areas on Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Met Eireann has issued a Status Orange Rain warning for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Wexford, and Wicklow from 10pm tonight, while a Status Yellow Rainfall warning has been issued for Cavan, Dublin, Kildare, Louth, Meath and Monaghan.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is asking motorists to exercise caution while using the roads Tuesday evening and all day Wednesday.
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Road users in areas affected by the Orange Warnings for heavy rain are advised to check local traffic and weather conditions before heading out.
In a statement, the RSA said: "Drivers need to slow down and allow a greater braking distance between themselves and the vehicle in front in wet weather conditions.
"This is especially important on high speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways where there is increased danger of aquaplaning".
The Road Safety Authority also advised drivers to take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray, which reduces visibility.
It advised motorists to hold back until they can see vehicles' mirrors ahead of them.
If the road ahead is flooded, motorists are advised to choose another route.
The RSA said: "Do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think.
"The verge may have subsided, and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible."
Road users should also always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic that have been put there by the local council or An Garda Síochána.
The RSA added: "After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance - this helps to dry the brakes.
"Drive with dipped headlights at all times."
Advice has also been issued for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, as visibility and light will be reduced in poor weather conditions.
The RSA said: "Keep safe by making sure you can be seen. Wear bright clothing and consider wearing high visibility material.
"Walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths.
"Cyclists should ensure that they and their bike are visible to other road users by investing in a good set of front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back) and by wearing clothes that help you be seen on your bike, consider wearing high visibility material."
For advice on severe weather driving tips, please see severe weather advice on the RSA website or check out the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages.
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