Storm Dave to bring 60mph gusts to Flintshire on Saturday night
The Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning for Flintshire as Storm Dave is forecast to bring gusts of up to 60mph on Easter Saturday night and into the early hours of Easter Sunday.
The warning runs from 5pm on Saturday 4 April until 7am on Sunday 5 April.
It was updated on Thursday morning, with the Met Office citing a change in the affected area and the warning’s validity time.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Holley said: “A significant cold plunge from Canada into the North Atlantic will impact our weekend weather, strengthening the jet stream and spinning up a deep area of low pressure towards the northwest of the UK on Saturday night.”
“This will lead to a spell of very strong winds later on Saturday, and overnight into the morning of Easter Sunday.”
“Winds should gradually ease through Easter Sunday as the area of low pressure clears to the North Sea,” he added.
Gusts of 50 to 60mph are expected across the warning area, with 60 to 70mph possible in exposed locations.
The Met Office says some delays to road, rail, air and ferry services are likely, with a chance of cancellations.
High-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges face delays, with some road and bridge closures also possible.
There is a slight chance of power cuts which could affect mobile phone coverage, and a slight chance of tiles being blown from roofs.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is urging drivers across north Wales to take extra care over the holiday weekend.
Rebecca Guy, Senior Policy Manager at RoSPA, said: “With yellow wind warnings now in place across Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and parts of northern England this Easter weekend, and heavy rain expected to move in from Friday, anyone travelling should take extra care on the roads.”
“The combination of strong winds, which forecasters say could widely reach 50 to 60mph with even higher gusts in exposed areas, and periods of heavy rain will make driving conditions challenging.”
“Millions of people are expected to be on the move over the holiday period, so we’re urging drivers to plan ahead, allow extra time, and be prepared for delays.”
“In wet and windy conditions, it’s vital to slow down, increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front, and keep both hands firmly on the wheel.”
“Heavy rain can greatly reduce visibility and increase stopping distances,” Ms Guy said.
RoSPA also recommends checking vehicles before setting off, including fuel or charge levels, oil, coolant, screenwash, tyre condition, lights, horn and wipers, and checking for any visible damage.
“If conditions worsen, don’t hesitate to delay or avoid your journey,” Ms Guy added.
“Your safety and the safety of other road users must always come first.”
The Met Office advises people to check for unsecured items outside their homes before the storm arrives, including bins, garden furniture, trampolines and fences.
Those on the coast are warned to stay away from the sea edge, as large waves can sweep people off their feet even from the shore.
People planning to travel on Saturday evening or early Easter Sunday morning are advised to check road conditions and transport timetables before setting out.
The warning covers Flintshire alongside parts of north Wales including Conwy, Denbighshire, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey, as well as areas across north-west England and southern Scotland.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
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