Storm Dave: Met Office extends Easter weekend yellow weather warning for all areas of Northern Ireland
The Met Office has extended a yellow weather warning for strong winds across Northern Ireland ahead of the arrival of Storm Dave over the Easter weekend.
Forecasters say the storm is set to bring a spell of very strong winds from Saturday into Easter Sunday morning which may cause some damage and travel disruption.
A yellow warning already in place from 6pm on Saturday, April 4 to 12 noon on Sunday, April 5 has now been extended.
The Met Office said the step has been taken as the likelihood of impacts has been increased and end time delayed slightly.
The warning is now is in force from 2pm on Saturday to 3am on Sunday across all counties.
The Met Office said Storm Dave – a rapidly deepening area of low pressure – will pass close to Ireland before crossing Scotland on Saturday night, clearing into the North Sea on Sunday.
"Whilst some uncertainty remains in the exact track and shape of Storm Dave, a spell of strong southerly veering westerly winds is expected to affect Northern Ireland,” forecasters said.
"Gusts of 50-60 mph are expected fairly widely with 60-70 mph in more exposed locations. The strongest winds are expected during Saturday evening where there is a small chance of gusts of 70-80 mph briefly.
"Large waves may lead to some dangerous conditions around windward coasts.”
People are warned that the deteriorating weather could affect road, rail, air and ferry services over the holiday weekend.
Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage. There could also be damage to buildings and injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible.
The Met Office also warns that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.