Roads 'hazardous or impassable' council warns
All routes in Westmeath are currently “extremely hazardous” and some are actually impassable, Westmeath County Council has just warned.
A statement issued by the council notes that Westmeath experienced further significant snow showers overnight, particularly over the eastern half of the county.
“The entire country is under a Status Red Weather Warning up to 4pm tomorrow Friday and it is expected that blizzard like conditions will set in this afternoon.
As a result, the statement says, normal services have been suspended for today, for Friday and for Saturday, to allow it focus on responding to the extreme weather.
“Council crews have been out treating roads since yesterday evening and a further treatment was applied from 5:30am this morning.
“Snow ploughs are in use on the priority routes, being the National Primary and Secondary roads and the TII Motorway Maintenance Contractor is working to keep the motorways and dual carriageways in operation.
“Despite these efforts, all routes are extremely hazardous, some are impassable and the public are strongly advised not to attempt any journeys until the Status Red Weather Warning has been lifted.
“Westmeath County Council has suspended normal services for today, Friday and Saturday of this week in order to focus on responding to the extreme weather conditions, and in the interests of public safety.
“The following offices and facilities are closed to the public on Thursday 1st, Friday 2nd March and Saturday 3rd March 2018:
- Aras an Chontae, Mullingar
- Civic Centre, Athlone
- Civic Centre, Castlepollard
- Athlone Castle & Luan Gallery
- Athlone Regional Sports Centre
- Belvedere House, Gardens & Park
- Mullingar Swimming Pool
- All Public Libraries
“If you require an urgent response or assistance from Westmeath County Council please call the Council’s main telephone number: (044) 9332000.”
Please see www.winterready.ie for further advice, and keep up to date with national and local advice through the relevant media channels.
Ends.