Storm Dave set to batter Formby with damaging 70mph winds this Easter

Easter has arrived – but so has Storm Dave, which is set to bring damaging winds and dangerous conditions across northern parts of the UK from Saturday into Sunday.

The latest named storm is forecast to rapidly intensify as it approaches from the west, with very strong winds expected to hit Formby and surrounding coastal areas overnight into Easter Sunday morning.

The High Tide on Saturday is at 1:12pm (8.81m) so coupled with the winds of Storm Dave, might be a lot higher, so take care if heading to the beach.

Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree said the storm will form and deepen quickly as it nears the UK.

He warned: “By Saturday afternoon winds will strengthen significantly, with gusts of 60 to 70 mph expected at times across parts of Scotland, with the potential for gusts of 80 to 90 mph in exposed coastal locations. Gusts of 50 to 60 mph are likely more widely in northern Britain.”

In Scotland, blizzard conditions are possible, with 10 to 20 cm of snow combining with strong winds over higher ground. Elsewhere, heavy rain will sweep eastwards across the UK as the storm moves through.

For Formby and the wider Sefton coast, expect:

• Travel disruption, with delays and possible cancellations across road, rail, air and ferry services

• A risk of power cuts, potentially affecting mobile phone coverage

• Hazardous driving conditions, especially for high sided vehicles, with possible road and bridge closures

• Minor damage to buildings, including roof tiles being blown loose

• Dangerous coastal conditions, with large waves and debris being thrown onto seafronts, roads and properties

Peak gusts locally could reach 60 to 70 mph in exposed coastal areas, making conditions particularly hazardous along the shoreline.

Safety advice:

• Secure loose items such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines and fencing

• Check travel updates before setting off and allow extra time

• Prepare for possible power cuts with torches, batteries and charged devices

• Stay well clear of the coast during stormy conditions – large waves can be unpredictable and dangerous

• In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard

This is a fast-developing situation and conditions may change quickly. Please stay updated with the latest forecasts and warnings over the coming hours.