Road conditions improving slowly despite persistent rain

Heavy rain and strong winds continue to batter the country this morning, but road conditions are improving.

In Wicklow and Dublin the earlier closure of the M11 near the Bray North exit has caused long delays, though it has now reopened to northbound motorists.

Wicklow: M11 reopened n/bound. S/bound still closed after J5 Bray North. Divert via Wilford R/A south of Shankill. http://t.co/9de5SKCdi8

— The AA Ireland (@aaroadwatch) March 22, 2013

Traffic is also barely moving on the M50 southbound from J16 Cherrywood to past the M50/M11 Merge as a result.

Traffic is also barely moving on the M50 southbound from J16 Cherrywood to past the M50/M11 Merge as a result http://t.co/wbZRPQbi6K #AARW

— The AA Ireland (@aaroadwatch) March 22, 2013

Elsewhere in Dublin, flooding in Cabinteely and on Pottery Road in Dun Laoghaire is causing problems.

Meanwhile in Cork, there continues to be some lose debris in Blackpool, and care is also needed in counties Wexford and Waterford.

[comment]Flooding in Blackpool, Cork, last night:[/comment]

Cork: Gardai in Mayfield tell us floodwater has receded in Blackpool but to be wary of loose debris. http://t.co/9de5SKCdi8 #AARW

— The AA Ireland (@aaroadwatch) March 22, 2013

Snowy conditions on high ground in Wicklow, windy weather in Mullingar and fallen trees in Laois, Clare and Sligo.

CLARE The Killaloe/ Ogonnelloe Rd (R463) is blocked by a fallen tree at Tinerana House. Avoid the route. http://t.co/yzeqWreJaQ #AARW

— The AA Ireland (@aaroadwatch) March 22, 2013

Snow conditions on high ground in Wicklow, windy weather in Mulllingar and fallen trees in Laois, Clare and Sligo.

In the North, more than 18,000 homes are without power.

The runway at George Best Belfast City airport has been closed due to snow.

Passengers are advised to check with their airline regarding travel arrangements.

Irish Ferries later advised that due to adverse weather conditions on the Irish Sea today, all of its Jonathan Swift fast craft sailings have been cancelled.

That includes the 8.45am Dublin departure and the 11.50am Holyhead sailing.

All passengers booked on these sailings will be accommodated - those affected should contact Irish Ferries.

All other Irish Ferries sailings are expected to sail to schedule.