Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow wind warning for much of Ireland as Storm Dave makes landfall, with gusts expected to cause disruption across the country. The alert comes into effect at 1pm this afternoon and will remain in place until 2am tomorrow. Officials warned that the period will bring the “most disruptive spell of windy weather,” with very strong southerly winds shifting westerly by evening.
Forecasters cautioned that severe gusts and coastal gales could lead to fallen trees, wave overtopping, difficult travel conditions, and the displacement of objects and debris. A separate Status Yellow rain warning is active for counties Mayo and Donegal, effective from 8am until 4pm. Heavy rain could cause localised flooding, poor visibility, and hazardous travel.
Across Northern Ireland, the UK Met Office has issued a Status Yellow wind warning for counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry. The alert will run from 2pm today until 3am tomorrow. Officials said very strong winds are expected, which may result in property damage and travel disruption.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) advised drivers to exercise caution on the roads. Vehicles may be affected by strong crosswinds, with high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists particularly vulnerable. The RSA urged motorists to leave extra space between themselves and vulnerable road users, noting that cyclists and motorcyclists could be blown off course by gusts. “Expect the unexpected,” the authority said in a statement.
Storm Dave is the fourth named storm of the 2026 season, following a list of 21 names selected collaboratively by the Irish, UK, and Dutch national weather services. Authorities have urged people to monitor weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel during peak gust periods.
Emergency services and local councils are preparing for potential impacts, including fallen trees, power outages, and coastal flooding. Residents in affected areas have been advised to secure loose objects, check drainage systems, and take care when driving or walking near exposed locations.
Meteorologists expect winds to remain strong overnight, gradually easing by early tomorrow morning. While the storm is not expected to be as severe as some previous winter events, authorities stressed that the combination of high winds and heavy rainfall could still pose risks to road users, infrastructure, and coastal communities.
With winter storms continuing to affect the region, public officials have reminded citizens to follow official guidance, report hazards, and stay updated through Met Éireann and local news outlets as conditions evolve.
