Storm Dave set to disrupt transport network

Travel disruption is expected in large parts of Scotland over the Easter Weekend, with Storm Dave set to bring high winds and heavy rain, as well as snow over higher ground.

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for high winds covering most of Scotland, running from 6pm on Saturday 4 April until noon Sunday 5 April. A yellow wind warning will be in place for the Northern Isles throughout Sunday. A yellow warning for snow has also been issued for parts of North West Scotland from 3pm on Saturday 4 April until 3am on Sunday 5 April. The Met Office is warning that weather warnings could be escalated in the coming days.

The conditions are likely to cause disruption across the transport network, potentially impacting road, rail, air and ferry travel. Travellers should expect longer journey times, bridge restrictions, as well as delays and cancellation of services. The strong winds could also lead to fallen trees, damage to buildings and power cuts.

The Transport Scotland Resilience Room and the Multi-Agency Response Team will stand up to monitor conditions. Traffic Scotland will provide updates on social media, as well as their website and radio broadcasts, from the National Traffic Control Centre in South Queensferry.

George Fiddes from Transport Scotland said:

Storm Dave is a timely reminder that we can face challenging weather conditions at any time of year, not just during the winter period.

The Met Office warnings show high winds will impact the whole country this weekend, with the prospect of some areas also being affected by heavy rain and snow, so I'm urging people to plan ahead if they are travelling over the Easter period.

Motorists should check their planned routes before setting off. The latest information on the trunk road network is available at the Traffic Scotland website, which will also have details of any 'wind based' closures for bridges. The Traffic Scotland X page is also updated regularly.

The forecast weather conditions are likely to impact other modes of transport, so if you are planning to travel by train, ferry or air, please check with your operator to see if your service has been affected.

Many people will be heading off to spend time with family and friends this weekend, so planning your journey before setting off will help you reach your destination in good time and enjoy your celebrations.

Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, Police Scotland's head of Road Policing, said:

Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary or if it can be delayed until conditions improve. Stopping distances can be at least double on wet roads compared to dry conditions, and spray can reduce driver visibility.

HGV and bus drivers should drive with extreme caution and be aware you may be asked to park at a suitable position by the police.

If you need to travel, please drive to the conditions and take extra time for your journey.