Met Office issues rare 'danger to life' amber alert as Storm Dave to bring hurricane-force winds

Fintan Starkey
Sat, 04 Apr 2026 12:07:36 +0000

The Met Office has issued an amber wind alert across multiple areas of the UK as Britain's national forecaster warns Storm Dave could pose a "danger to life".

The warning is in place from 7pm today until 3am on Easter Sunday and will affect northeast England, northwest England, southwest Scotland, Wales, and parts of Yorkshire.

The forecaster has warned of "longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected."

They cautioned: "Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.

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"Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life.

"Probably some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, with roads and bridges likely to close.

"There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage."

Further explaining the reason for the amber alert, the forecaster said: "A spell of very strong southwesterly, then westerly winds is expected across north Wales, northern England and southern Scotland on Saturday evening and overnight before easing early on Sunday."

Gusts of 60-70 mph are possible, with some coastal or exposed locations seeing gusts of around 80 mph.

Britons have been told to keep safe during the strong winds.

To anyone in the affected areas, the forecaster says: "Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users.

"If you must drive, you can do this more safely by taking the following actions; drive slowly to minimise the impact of wind gusts, be aware of high sided vehicles/caravans on more exposed roads and be cautious when overtaking, and give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries, and buses more room than usual.

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"Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury.

"Stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk, or shelter, close to buildings and trees. In advance of high winds, check for loose items outside your home and secure them.

"Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.

"If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves.

"Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.

"Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

The Met Office have also stated: "People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance

"It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items."