M7 southbound lanes closed amid major traffic disruption

Dense freezing fog was causing difficulties for motorists this morning, especially in the midlands where a major crash caused a closure of the Dublin-Limerick road, according to AA Roadwatch.

The M7 Dublin/Limerick road southbound was closed between J16 & J17 at Portlaoise with diversions off at J16 and on at J18.

"Traffic queues start at J15 Ballybrittas and drivers are urged to reduce speed before this junction as visibility is extremely poor and it is very hard to see stationary traffic ahead of you," AA Roadwatch said.

"Gardai are dealing with up to 15 crashes on the route, including two trucks which are almost cleared from the motorway."

The initial crash occurred before 8:30am.

Traffic in Portlaoise town is very slow and there is severe fog on the motorway and in the town.

Drivers are urged to reduce speed significantly and avoid the area if possible.

Poor visibility and icy slippery roads are also a problem in the following areas:

• On the M6 Galway/ Dublin Rd from J7 Moate West to J2 Kinnegad West

• On the M4 Sligo/ Dublin Rd from Longford to J4 Newcastle.

• On the M8 Cork/Dublin Rd from J15 Fermoy South through J9 Naas North on the M7 Limerick/ Dublin Rd.

• On the N11 Dublin/Wexford Rd from Gorey to New Ross.

• On the M1 Dublin/Belfast Rd between J17 Dundalk and J9 Drogheda

• Further south, on the M1 between J6 Balbriggan and the M1/M50 Interchange.

• In Co. Meath, severe fog around Navan, Dunshaughlin, Dunboyne, Trim

• On the M3 between Clonee and Blanchardstown (Dublin).

• On the N2 from Slane to Ashbourne.

• In Co. Kilkenny around Thomastown, Inistioge and New Ross.