VOCM News: Major Crash Closes Main Road Near Whitestone Cross

If you were thinking of heading across the country this weekend, you might want to have a rethink. The main Dublin–Cork road is still closed this morning near Whitestone Cross after a massive articulated lorry jackknifed and blocked both lanes yesterday afternoon. Our team at VOCM has been following this story since the first call came in, and we're keeping listeners updated around the clock on 590 VOCM - St. John's and our sister stations VOCM-FM and CKVO.

The crash happened around 2:30 p.m. Friday when the truck—fully loaded with timber—hit a patch of black ice just east of the Whitestone Cross flyover. Witnesses say the trailer fishtailed, then folded up like an accordion, completely blocking traffic in both directions. Emergency crews from the Gardaí and local fire services were at the scene through the night, but with the truck's fuel tank ruptured and cleanup crews waiting for daylight, the road isn't expected to reopen until late this afternoon at the earliest.

Diversions and Delays

For anyone heading south towards Cork or on to Kerry, you're looking at a serious diversion. The council has put a detour in place along the R639, but that's adding at least an hour to most journeys. I chatted to a few people stuck in the traffic near the Mitchelstown turn-off yesterday—some had been sitting there for six hours without moving. One driver, Jamie Budden, sent us the photo you see above. "It's an absolute mess out here," he told us. "I've never seen a truck that size completely sideways like that."

Here's what you need to know if you're heading that way today:

• Road closure: The main Dublin–Cork road (N8) is closed from the Whitestone Cross exit to the Fermoy junction.
• Detour: Use the R639 (old road) for local traffic; long-haul trucks are advised to wait it out or park up at designated pull-ins.
• Weather: More sleet showers are expected Sunday—our VOCM weather specialist warns that the southeast could see another 10 cm by Monday morning.

Community Support and How to Help

What's really heartening at times like this is how quick neighbours are to rally round. The VOCM Cares Foundation has already been in touch with the St Vincent de Paul and local food banks in the area to make sure any stranded drivers get a hot meal and a warm place to kip if needed. We'll have more details on how you can donate or lend a hand later today on 590 VOCM - St. John's.

And for those of you stuck at home wondering about road conditions, keep it tuned to VOCM-FM and CKVO. We're doing live interviews with Garda traffic corps and Roads Service crews every half-hour. If you do have to head out, give yourself extra time and throw a blanket and some snacks in the car—just in case.

We'll keep you posted online and on air as this develops. Safe travels, folks.