Warning of slippery and sticky roads due to tar melting in sizzling heat

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has warned motorists to take care on the roads due to melting tar.

Road temperatures can sometimes reach 15 degrees or more than air temperatures which Met Eireann records.

Local Co Council crews in Mayo and Sligo have had to grit roads to increase grip on the slippery surfaces.

Photos on social media have shown pebbles sticking to melting tar on tyres.

A RSA spokesperson said: "Hot weather means hot roads and softer road surfaces.

"We are reminding road users to be careful of surfaces becoming slick and dangerous, particularly on minor roads. Please exercise caution when braking."

Mayo County Council tweeted: "Road Safety Alert: Our gritters are on standby to deal with melting roads in the blazing sunshine.

"Please be aware and drive carefully."

Sligo County Council said; "Please drive with caution during this very hot spell of weather, as all roads are liable to boiling tar.

"Tar is boiling up on the L-3604-0 (Local Road between Ballisodare and the R284 Sligo - Ballygawley Road) as road temperatures (as distinct from air temperatures) are in excess of 44 degrees.

"The road has been treated by Sligo County Council Staff. Please proceed with care.

Met Éireann said due to blazing temperatures already witnessed across the country, there's a chance the mercury could creep upward to 32C, as we edge closer to Ireland's record 33.3C temperature in 1887.