Kerry County Council is warning road users to exercise “extreme care” as the cold spell is set to continue until at least the weekend.

Overnight, Kerry County Council crews have treated the most heavily trafficked routes in the county.

The R563 Golden Nugget Junction to Milltown road was treated on Sunday evening and overnight but it may take time for the salting to take effect.

In the interim, motorists are advised to divert via the N70 to Castlemaine, the R561 to Farranfore and the N22 to Killarney

The cold spell is likely to bring an additional risk of heavy fog making driving conditions even more hazardous – particularly in the Killarney area.

“The Council is not in a position to treat every road in the county: the focus is on main arteries to ensure the maintenance of essential economic, commercial and medical/emergency services traffic is maintained,” said a council spokesperson.

“The Council would encourage motorists to use national primary and secondary roads as much as possible. Extreme care should be taken by motorists and all roads users. Allow extra time for journeys, slow down and allow space between yours and other vehicles for braking distances.

“That advice applies across the week with temperatures remaining low until at least next weekend.”