Motorists warned as heavy flooding makes several Meath roads impassable
Motorists are being urged to exercise caution after heavy overnight rainfall led to flooding on a number of roads across Meath.
Meath County Council said several routes in and around Ashbourne and Ratoath have been affected, with some roads rendered impassable and others remaining open but hazardous.
Among the worst affected areas, Piltown Road has been deemed impassable due to flooding, while Castle Street and the Mill Race in Ashbourne have also been inundated.
The Bru Na Boinne to N2 route at Rosnaree (L1601-0) is also currently impassable.
Other routes, including the Ballybin Road (L5018), the Kilbride Road junction (R125) in Ratoath, the Ratoath to Kilbride Road (L1007), and the Skryne Road (L1006), remain passable but are affected by surface flooding.
The Glascarn turn-off on the Kilbride Road (L5041) has been completely closed due to flooding.
The council has advised road users to check local traffic and weather conditions before travelling and to sign up for real-time alerts.
Drivers have also been urged to reduce speed and maintain a greater braking distance in wet conditions, particularly on high-speed routes where the risk of aquaplaning is increased.
Motorists are warned not to attempt to drive through flooded roads.
“Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think,” the local authority said.
“The verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that are not visible.”
Road users have been reminded to follow official diversion routes and obey road closure signs put in place by the 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,” the council added
Meanwhile a number of roads across South and Mid-Louth were impacted by heavy overnight rain, with flooding reported on the Marsh Road at Flogas, Beaulieu Cross on the Termonfeckin Road, and along the L1212 Rootstown-Stabannon and L1210 Ballybailie due to runoff from surrounding fields.
The canal at the Boyne Obelisk has burst its banks, leaving the road impassable, while Strand Road in Termonfeckin is also affected by flooding. Sweepers are being deployed at key pinch points throughout Drogheda to assist with surface water management.