Laois Council crews to salt routes as Storm Éowyn clear up continues

After clearing falling trees and debris from a number of main roads in the wake of Storm Éowyn, Laois County Council will now start salting as temperatures look set to drop. 

According to Met Éireann, patchy frost and ice is expected in parts of Leinster tonight. 

“Mainly dry tonight with clear spells, apart from a few showers early in the night. Lowest temperatures of -2 to +2 degrees with some patchy frost and ice as winds decrease light to moderate southwesterly,” the forecaster said. 

Council Fire and Roads crews are continuing to clear downed trees and road blockages. Since the end of the Status Red warning they have cleared 40 roads across Laois.

The Council says that although the N80, N78, N77 and R445 are now clear in Laois, motorists still need to be cautious. 

The Council will be carrying out salting operations on priority routes from 6pm. They say this will give them a further opportunity to assess those priority routes. The council's severe weather hotline for Laois is 1800 83 20 10.

Meanwhile, Laois Offaly Gardaí are also urging people to take care after the storm.  

“As weather warnings continue to decrease following Storm Éowyn, the risk of falling trees and debris remains high, as many structures may have been weakened during the storm. We urge the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when travelling.

Primary routes across Laois and Offaly have been cleared and are passable with care. However, many local routes may still be obstructed. If you come across any blocked roads or hazards, please report them using the contact numbers provided.

We would like to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of local authority staff and volunteers who have once again demonstrated their dedication and resilience in supporting their communities through challenging conditions. Your commitment does not go unnoticed, and we sincerely thank you for your hard work,” they said. 

Please remember: Travel only if necessary and drive with caution on all roads.

Do not approach or attempt to remove fallen trees or debris, as they may conceal hidden dangers such as fallen power lines,”  Laois Offaly Gardai added.