Late yesterday evening, at approximately 7:50 PM, a catastrophic collision between a car and a van on the R338 near Browne Roundabout, adjacent to University Hospital Galway, led to a significant route closure. This incident, occurring on the eve of October 4, 2024, has since caused a ripple effect of traffic congestion throughout the city.

The aftermath of the crash saw the R338, a critical artery for Galway’s traffic, shut down overnight and well into the next day. The closure has led to substantial tailbacks affecting major routes including Westside, Seamus Quirke Road, the Quincentennial Bridge, and extending towards Headford and Tuam Roads. Motorists have faced unprecedented delays, with some areas of the city coming to a near standstill.

Despite the serious nature of the incident, it is somewhat relieving that no injuries have been reported. Local Gardaí were quick to respond to the incident, managing the scene through the night and into Saturday. A Garda spokesperson confirmed the details of the collision, emphasizing the fortunate absence of injuries amidst the severe disruptions.

Authorities are currently advising motorists to expect continued delays in both eastern and western parts of Galway, including the N6, as efforts to clear the wreckage and restore normal traffic flow are ongoing.

Adding to the city’s woes, Galway and several other counties in Ireland are bracing for adverse weather conditions with the approach of two significant storms across the Atlantic. Met Éireann has issued an Orange Weather Warning for Cork, Kerry, and Waterford, and a Yellow Weather Warning for Clare, Limerick, Galway, and Mayo. The impending storms, named Hurricane Kirk and Storm Lesley, are anticipated to bring heavy and intensifying rain, potentially leading to localized flooding and further complicating travel conditions.

Residents are advised to stay updated on weather warnings and to exercise caution while travelling, especially in areas prone to flooding.

As Galway navigates through these compounded challenges of severe weather and traffic disruptions, the community is urged to prioritize safety and stay informed through official updates.

Around an hour ago, drivers on the busy Outer Ring Road found themselves at a standstill as Gardaí and emergency crews arrived at the scene between the Airport Road Roundabout and the Farronshoneen Roundabout. The closure of this vital artery has caused considerable disruption, with traffic backups extending several kilometers.

Authorities, led by An Garda Siochana, were quick to address the situation, assessing the scene for safety risks and managing the flow of increasingly congested traffic. In light of the collision, officials have issued a directive urging motorists to seek alternative routes until the area is deemed safe for travel.

As of the latest reports, there have thankfully been no injuries associated with this incident. Emergency personnel on-site have been working diligently to clear the roadway and ensure that no further hazards threaten commuter safety. The swift response underscores the community’s commitment to road safety and the effectiveness of its emergency response protocols.

Local traffic reports suggest that the road closure will likely persist into the evening hours as investigations continue into the cause of the collision. Motorists are advised to stay updated through local news channels and traffic apps to avoid the affected area.

This event serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of road travel and the importance of adhering to traffic laws and guidelines. It also highlights the efficiency and readiness of emergency services in Waterford, who play a crucial role in managing such unforeseen disruptions.

The community awaits further updates as crews work on reopening the road, and authorities conduct a thorough investigation to prevent future incidents. Meanwhile, the resilience and cooperation of affected motorists and local residents continue to be crucial in mitigating the impact of this disruption on daily activities.