The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising road users to take extra care when using the roads, as Met Éireann has issued a weather warnings and an advisory for the remainder of the week.

Met Éireann issued updated Status Orange and Yellow weather warnings for rain as well as a weather advisory for Ireland.

Spells of very heavy rain falling on already saturated ground combined with high river levels and high tides will lead to localised and river flooding as well as difficult travelling conditions.

The Status Orange Rain warnings are for Wicklow and Waterford from 3:00a.m Thursday to 3:00a.m Friday.

The Status Yellow Rain warning is for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Louth, Wexford, Monaghan and Tipperary from 3:00a.m Thursday to 3:00a.m Friday

The advisory for Ireland runs up until Monday, February 9, during which time there will be spells of heavy and persistent rainfall, particularly in southern and eastern coastal counties.

Road users in areas affected by the flooding are recommended to check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

The following advice has been given by the RSA to road users around the current weather advisory and warnings:

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
Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces your visibility. Hold back to where you can see their mirrors.
If the road ahead is flooded, choose another route, 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.
Do not bypass Road Closed signs – the road ahead is unsafe, the damage may be hidden beneath water, and you may be putting your life at risk. Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic that have been put there by the local council or An Garda Síochána.
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.

Non-car road users

Walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths.
Cyclist 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.
Be Safe. Be Seen. Visibility and light is reduced in poor weather conditions. Keep safe by making sure you can be seen. Wear bright clothing and consider wearing high visibility material.

Further advice on tip for driving in severe weather are available in the RSA website and social media channels.