London: Storm Dave is set to strike parts of Britain over the Easter weekend, bringing damaging winds of up to 90mph, heavy rain, and snowfall, according to the Met Office.
The storm, the fourth named weather system of the year, is expected to impact northern regions from April 4 to April 6, raising concerns over widespread disruption.
Storm Dave is forecast to rapidly intensify on April 4 as it approaches the UK from the west. By the afternoon, wind speeds will increase significantly, with gusts of 60–70mph across parts of Scotland and 80–90mph possible in exposed coastal areas, particularly in western Scotland. Across northern Britain, gusts of 50–60mph are expected more widely.
With a number of weather warnings issued, be sure to stay updated and check the latest info 👉 https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs
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— Met Office (@metoffice) April 2, 2026
Weather warnings
The Met Office has issued multiple yellow severe weather warnings for wind, covering Scotland, Northern Ireland, North Wales, and northern England, including areas stretching from Liverpool to Newcastle.
These warnings indicate likely disruption to road, rail, air, and ferry transport from 6 pm on April 4 until midday April 5, coinciding with what the RAC expects to be one of the busiest Easter travel periods since 2022.
In addition to strong winds, snowfall is forecast in northwest Scotland, with a 12-hour yellow warning in place starting at 3 pm on April 4. Areas above 200 metres could receive 5–10cm of snow, with a smaller chance of 10–20cm, and blizzard conditions are possible over higher ground due to the combination of heavy snow and powerful winds.
Elsewhere, the storm will bring heavy spells of rain as it moves eastward across the UK. There is also a risk of power cuts, which could disrupt other essential services such as mobile phone coverage.
The storm’s name, ‘Dave,’ was selected from public nominations, reportedly inspired by “a beloved husband who can snore three times louder than any storm.” Further warnings have been issued for the Orkney and Shetland Islands on April 5, while parts of Ireland are expected to experience very strong southerly winds on April 4.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree advised residents in affected areas to prepare their properties for strong winds ahead of the storm Dave’s arrival, noting the potential for severe conditions over a short period.
A clear north-south weather divide is expected, with southern parts of the UK remaining breezy but much drier, and likely to experience sunny spells on the afternoon of April 5 and at times on April 6.
Overall, Storm Dave is expected to bring a mix of high winds, snow, rain, and travel disruption, posing challenges for millions during the Easter holiday period.
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