Warning over 'grease' effect on dry roads with heavy rain today

Kildare motorists have been cautioned that roads will be very slippy today due to rainfall after long, dry period.

Downpours are due across the eastern part of the county lunchtime today until about 10pm tonight.

Met Eireann said some heavy thundery showers could lead to some flooding.

Greasy surfaces

Road surfaces will have a build-up of grit, tar, rubber and oil deposits which will become greasy when water is added.

A Garda spokesman said: "Expected rainfall following the recent dry spell will make road surfaces slippery and drivers are reminded to reduce speed and drive to the conditions.

"Speed limits are the maximum permitted in perfect driving conditions.

"Road, weather and traffic conditions may require you to reduce speed further."

Roads at most slippery 

The Road Safety Authority also warned that roads are at their most slippery when the weather breaks after a long dry spell.

A spokesman added: "This is because the fine grit on roads tends to polish the road surface and roads also see the build up of a film of tar, rubber and oil deposit.

"The sudden change in driving conditions can also catch drivers off guard.”

“The expected rainfall and the condition of roads will make driving particularly hazardous as road surfaces become slippery reducing skid resistance.

“For their own safety and the safety of other road users drivers should adjust their driving behaviour to suit these changing conditions especially after driving for a period in good dry conditions.

"Slow down, keep your distance and expect the unexpected."