R397 closed between Keenagh and McGiff’s Cross

Statement from Longford County Council

Due to the early morning snow, there is continued disruption to travel on a number of roads in County Longford this afternoon.

Please be aware:

Longford County Council deployed snow ploughs this morning and at this stage all the national roads are passable, but drivers need to be aware of the dangers of overtaking where there is slush in the middle of the road.

Crews are now proceeding to clear the regional roads as quickly as possible.

Response crews are liaising with gardaí on site on the R397 which is closed between Keenagh and McGiff’s Cross, where a bus overturned. The bus is currently being removed and it is hoped that that route will be re-opened as soon as possible afterwards.

Numerous roads are also partially blocked by fallen or snow-laden trees. With the thaw setting in, snow is already falling off these trees and causing mini drifts along the roads. Snow ploughs and road crews will continue to deal with these for the rest of the day so there may well be some intermittent road closures as a result in places.

Longford County Council is urging people not to make any unnecessary journeys today, until road conditions have improved and for those who must travel, please proceed with caution and allow extra time for your journey.