Road users have been advised to take extra care this weekend as a Status Yellow wind warning is set to take effect across Ireland with the arrival of Storm Dave.
The warning, which has been extended, will remain in place from 1pm on Saturday until 2am on Sunday, covering the entire country. Meteorologists are warning of strong winds, heavy rain, and possible coastal flooding as the storm sweeps across the island.
Senior forecaster Gerry Murphy of Met Éireann said the northwest will bear the brunt of the storm, but strong winds are expected nationwide, particularly from early afternoon. Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, he said counties Sligo, Donegal, Leitrim, along with Derry and Antrim, “are going to get some very strong winds through the evening.”
Mr Murphy added that while Storm Dave will bring significant rainfall, it is not expected to be as impactful as the wind. “The wind will be the major feature tomorrow and in addition to that, people need to be aware of waves as well,” he said. He cautioned that spring tides combined with strong gusts may cause wave over-topping and localized flooding along coastal areas.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has urged drivers to exercise extra caution, warning that strong crosswinds can affect vehicle control. High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable. The RSA advised motorists to watch for fallen debris, objects blown onto roads, and vehicles veering unexpectedly. Drivers are also encouraged to allow extra space for cyclists and motorcyclists who may be blown off course. “Expect the unexpected,” the authority said in a statement.
The UK Met Office has issued a Yellow wind warning for Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry, effective from 2pm Saturday until 3am Sunday. The forecast indicates a spell of very strong winds that could lead to travel disruptions and minor damage.
Storm Dave is the fourth named storm of the season, part of a list of 21 chosen collaboratively by the Irish, UK, and Dutch national weather services. Previous storms this season have caused localized flooding and disruptions to transport networks, and authorities are urging communities to prepare for potential impacts.
Residents living near the coast are advised to monitor local weather updates and take precautions against possible flooding. Emergency services have also reminded the public to secure loose items and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm.
With strong winds expected across the country and spring tides coinciding with the storm, officials say vigilance is essential. Authorities continue to emphasize that road users, particularly cyclists and motorcyclists, remain alert and cautious throughout the weekend.