Additional stocks of salt brought in as further heavy accumulation of snow overnight

A sustained ploughing and gritting programme has been ongoing overnight and began again at 9am this morning.

Heavy accumulations of snow in the south and the west of the county are slowing down efforts to clear regional roads, especially in these areas.

An additional 200 tonnes of salt has been brought in by Limerick City and County Council to aid its efforts to clear roads post Storm Emma.

All national routes in Limerick are clear and passable although motorists are still being urged to drive with extreme caution.

A combination of ploughing and salting is underway on the strategic regional roads where crews are encountering additional snow accumulations and slush.

A programme of clearing footpaths has also begun in the core Limerick city centre area along with Newcastle West, Abbeyfeale, Rathkeale, Askeaton, Adare, Kilmallock, Kilfinane and Bruff and will continue throughout the weekend.

Temperatures are likely to reach +7 degrees today which will aid the local authority’s efforts.

As more and more people begin to leave their homes, pedestrians are reminded to exercise caution when out and about today.

Essential services will continue to be provided and the council can be contacted for out of hours emergencies on 061 556000 or 061 417833.

For any water issues, e.g. leaks, loss of water, dirty water, sewage issues, please contact Irish Water on 1850 278 278 or check their website www.water.ie.

Civil Defence volunteers are continuing to assist healthcare professionals to get to and from work and have linked with HSE to provide this service.

The Limerick Homeless Action Team (LHAT) is continuing to liaise with the emergency housing providers and additional capacity has been made available to anyone who may seek assistance over the period of severe weather.

LHAT can be contacted over the weekend on 1800 606060.

For more information about being prepared for adverse weather conditions, visit www.winterready.ie.