The Met Office has named Storm Dave, the fourth named storm of the year, warning of severe weather that will disrupt travel for millions this Easter weekend.
Emerging from a “powered up” jet stream, the storm is expected to rapidly deepen as it hits the UK on Saturday evening.
Forecasters have issued yellow weather warnings for wind and snow covering Scotland, Northern Ireland, north Wales and parts of northern England.
Coastal areas could see devastating gusts of up to 90mph, while inland regions expect 50-70mph. In northern Scotland, heavy snow and gales will create dangerous “blizzard conditions” with up to 20cm of accumulation on higher ground.
Met Office deputy forecaster Tom Crabtree warned, “Storm Dave will form and rapidly deepen on Saturday as it approaches the UK from the west.”
He added that while the north bears the brunt, “elsewhere, there will be heavy spells of rain as the system moves through eastwards.”
Travel experts at the RAC advise caution for those heading away for the holiday.
Spokesperson Rod Dennis stated, “Drivers shouldn’t underestimate the impact of the very strong winds,” urging motorists to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Conditions are expected to settle by Easter Monday.
