The three women from South West Donegal have died in a horrific road crash this morning.

The three women perished and two men are in a serious condition following a three-car collision near Ardee, Co. Louth.

The three-car collision occurred south of Aclint Bridge, Ardee, Co Louth at approximately 1am.

One female driver (aged 39), and two female passengers (37 and 69 years) died in the crash.

The three were travelling from Dublin when the accident occurred.

Meanwhile, two men who are seriously injured were rushed Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda.

Independent councillor Jim Tenaty told Independent.ie that it was ‘a shocking tragedy’.

Fianna Fail councillor Tommy Byrne told the Irish Independent that road conditions were treacherous last night.

“It was a desperate night and the rain was torrential,” he said, adding he is “absolutely heartbroken” over the news.

The N2 is closed between Ardee and Aclint Bridge to facilitate a forensic examination and will remain closed for the day.

Diversions are in place but Gardaí are asking motorists using the M1 to divert at Junction 17 for Castleblayney.