BREAKING: Tipperary motorway closed due to thick plumes of smoke from gorse fires
Firefighters from four stations are tackling the blaze
The M7 motorway is closed this Thursday evening due to thick black smoke from gorse smokes making travelling conditions treacherous.
The motorway is closed in both directions between J28 Castletroy (4 kilometres east of the Castleconnell area) and J25 Nenagh.
The video above, which has been widely shared on social media, shows just how dangerous it is for motorists who came upon the smoke. The gorse fires started shortly after 6pm.
Fire crews from Limerick city, Nenagh, Newport and Cappamore are all at the scene between Birdhill and Castletroy turn-offs, fighting the blaze.
There are long traffic delays with motorists urged to take alternative routes.
A garda spokesperson said: "To date, we have received no reports of a collision at this location.
"However, we are aware of gorse fires affecting visibility and traffic along the route. We understand local fire services are currently at the scene."