Laois Snow: 'Remain indoors, do not travel and stay safe' #stormemma #beastfromtheeast

Laois County Council has issued a new warning to the population to remain indoors this morning, Friday March 2, as snow continues to blast the county.

"A RED status weather warning remains in place for County Laois and in accordance with National advice all persons should remain indoors and do not travel and STAY SAFE.

"Further snowfall, freezing temperatures and drifting snow has made certain other routes in the County impassable and conditions on all other routes are extremely hazardous," the local authority has reported.

Council ploughing / salting /gritting operations commenced this morning Friday at 7.30am.

However with strong winds blasting new and fallen snow onto roads, most are impassable.

Main impassable routes include: the R419 Portarlington to Portlaoise road. The N80 Mountmellick to Tullamore road, and the 

R430 Abbeyleix to Mountrath road.

 Shelter is still being offered to those in need.

"Please be advised if you require the assistance of the emergency services please dial 999. The local number for the Severe Weather Communication Centre is 1890837273. Emergency shelter is available on request," Laois County Council said.

Motorway and National routes are being treated and drivers should take extreme care.

Anyone who must go out in is advised to tell somebody where and when they will return.

"The Gardai are again urging people to avoid all unnecessary travel and if you have to go out, ensure you use appropriate transport, bring all necessary equipment with you, let someone know where you are going and a time that you are expected back; that includes farmers going out to check on animals".

The public is asked to to check www.winterready.ie/en for information and advice.

"Please also check on the elderly and isolated neighbours and friends and ensure they have adequate stocks of food and fuel."

Also see www.laois.ie

Laois roads remain impassable by car