Scotland braced for worst of Storm Dave with wind and snow warnings
Scotland braced for worst of Storm Dave with wind and snow warnings
As Easter approaches, Scotland faces the most severe impacts of Storm Dave, with significant wind alerts and snow forecasts set to unfold. The Met Office has issued four yellow weather alerts for strong winds across the UK, anticipated to activate from Saturday afternoon. Snowfall is expected to affect the west Highlands, Argyll, and the Western Isles starting at 14:00, while other regions may see drifting snow and blizzard conditions by late evening.
Power network operator SSEN anticipates wind speeds of up to 80mph in the Western Isles and Skye, with similar conditions reaching Orkney and Shetland on Sunday. In Northern Ireland and northern Wales, gusts are forecast to persist into the early hours of Sunday, prompting concerns over structural damage and airborne objects. Public transport and road travel may encounter disruptions, as highlighted by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, urging travelers to plan carefully and remain vigilant.
“A rapidly deepening low-pressure system, Storm Dave, is expected to move north-eastwards near or over northwest UK during Saturday evening and night, clearing to the North Sea by Sunday,” stated a Met Office representative. “Peak gusts of 50-60 mph will be widespread, with 60-70 mph in exposed locations. Large waves may create hazardous coastal conditions.”
Police Scotland advises delaying travel where possible, emphasizing that wet roads could double stopping distances and that spray may hinder visibility. Ch Supt Scott McCarren, leading road policing, warned HGV and bus drivers to exercise extreme caution, noting that police might request vehicles to be parked safely. “If travel is necessary, adjust your pace and allow extra time for journeys,” he added.
ScotRail encourages passengers to monitor social media and the journey check website for real-time updates. CalMac, a west coast ferry service, reported some timetables already altered, with the final ferry to Arran departing earlier than usual. Highlands and Islands Airports also cautioned that flight operations could be affected by adverse weather.
Snowfall is predicted to spread from southern regions during the afternoon, intensifying later into the evening before subsiding by early Sunday. Accumulating snow on roads is likely in areas above 656ft (200m), with up to 12in (30cm) possible, while 2in (5cm) to 4in (10cm) is expected in lower elevations. By late Sunday, the most intense weather conditions are expected to ease.
