The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is calling on road users to exercise caution amid weather warnings for rain in eastern counties today (Monday, July 21).

A Status Orange weather warning has been issued by Met Éireann for Dublin, Louth, Meath and Wicklow for persistent and heavy rain with a chance of thunderstorms. The warning is in effect until 2:00p.m this afternoon.

The Status Orange warning may cause widespread surface flooding, difficult travelling conditions, very poor visibility, and lightning damage.

Meanwhile, a Status Yellow warning for rain is in place until 2:00p.m today for counties Kildare and Monaghan, with the potential for localised flooding, poor visibility, and difficult travelling conditions.

The RSA is advising road users in areas affected by the warnings for heavy rain to check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

Motorists are being advised to slow down and allow greater braking distance between themselves and the vehicle in front in wet weather conditions.

This is especially important on high speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways where there is increased danger of aquaplaning.

Drivers should take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces visibility; drivers should leave enough distance so they can see the wing mirrors of the goods vehicle in front.

If the road ahead is flooded drivers should choose another route, and should not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think.

On flooded roads, the verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible.

Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic that have been put there by the local council or An Garda Síochána.

After going through water, drivers should drive slowly with one foot on the brake pedal for a short distance. This helps to dry the brakes.

Drive should use dipped headlights at all times to ensure that they are visible and that other road users can be seen.

In terms of other road users, pedestrians should always walk on the right-hand side of road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths.

Cyclists should ensure that they and their bike are visible to other road users by investing in a good set front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back) and by wearing clothes that helps them be seen on their bike, such as high visibility material.

The RSA pointed out that visibility and light is reduced in poor weather conditions.