Motorists warned about icy conditions

Motorists were today urged to drive with extreme caution due to icy conditions across the country.

A number of cars have already skidded off the Borrisoleigh and Nenagh Road in Co Tipperary, where temperatures plummeted overnight.

AA Roadwatch warned drivers to take care in counties Donegal, Laois, Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo and particularly on the Ratoath and Tolka Valley Roads in Finglas, Freshford Road in Kilkenny, the M7 around Naas, and N78 through Athy.

Gardaí said motorists should significantly reduce their speed, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and make gentle manoeuvres.

Elsewhere, police in the North said ice had also affected the M1 and M2 entering Belfast making them particularly hazardous.

Yesterday, up to 40 vehicles were involved in a spate of road crashes after the North West was hit by a severe freeze.

Multiple pile-ups were reported on roads near the border, with at least 36 cars involved in eight separate minor accidents, after black ice caused treacherous driving conditions.