Storm Preparation Checklist UK: Getting Ready for Named Storms and Winter Weather

Every autumn and winter, the UK sees a run of strong winds, heavy rain and occasional snow and ice. Some of these systems are given names so that warnings are easier to follow. Most storms pass with little more than a blustery night, but a bit of planning helps your household stay comfortable and safe if roads close, trains are cancelled or the power goes off. This guide brings together official UK advice and a printable checklist.

How storm naming and weather warnings work

The Met Office names storms jointly with Met Éireann in Ireland and the Dutch national weather service, KNMI. A storm is usually named when it has the potential to cause medium or high impacts, and the name list runs from September to August each year.

The Met Office issues weather warnings in three levels, based on a combination of how likely impacts are and how severe they could be:

• Yellow: some impacts are possible. Think about whether your plans could be affected.
• Amber: an increased likelihood of impacts that could disrupt your plans. Be prepared to change them.
• Red: dangerous weather is expected. Take action to keep yourself and others safe and follow advice from the emergency services.

Warnings can be checked on the Met Office website or app, and on local radio.

Check your flood risk

Heavy rain often comes with storms. In England, you can check the long-term flood risk for your address, see current flood warnings and sign up for free flood warnings from the Environment Agency by phone, text or email. Floodline is available on 0345 988 1188. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, SEPA, Natural Resources Wales and NI Direct provide equivalent services. Gov.uk also has guidance on how to prepare for flooding, including making a personal flood plan.

Before the storm: around the home

• Secure or bring in garden furniture, bins, trampolines and anything else that could be blown about.
• Close and fasten doors and windows, including garage doors.
• Check gutters and drains are clear, so rainwater can flow away.
• Park away from trees, walls and fences if you can.
• Keep an eye on neighbours who may need help, and agree how you will stay in touch.

Prepare for a power cut

High winds can bring down power lines, so it is worth being ready for a few hours without electricity. Call 105 free to report or get updates on a power cut in England, Scotland or Wales. If you or someone in your home needs extra help, check whether you are eligible for the Priority Services Register.

Useful items include a torch or head torch, a battery LED lantern, a charged power bank and a battery or wind-up radio. Our power, lighting and communication collection covers these essentials. Never use a barbecue, camping stove or outdoor heater indoors, because of the risk of carbon monoxide.

Build a household emergency kit

The Government's Prepare website suggests keeping essentials together so they are easy to find: torches, a radio, a power bank, a first aid kit, any medicines, bottled water, food that keeps, and copies of important documents. Keeping them in one bag is helpful if you ever need to leave home at short notice, for example during flooding. A grab bag and a home first aid kit are good starting points.

Winter weather: snow, ice and cold

• Keep warm layers, hats and gloves to hand. Our storm and winter essentials collection includes thermal layers and accessories.
• Have a few days' supply of food and medicines in case travel is difficult.
• If you must travel, check conditions first. Keep a blanket, torch, water, snacks and a charged phone in the car.
• Know how to turn off your water at the stopcock, in case a pipe freezes and bursts.
• The UK Health Security Agency issues cold weather health alerts; it advises heating your main living room to at least 18°C if you can.

During the storm

• Stay indoors where possible and avoid unnecessary journeys.
• Keep away from coastal paths, sea fronts and fallen power lines. Report damaged lines to 105, or 999 if there is immediate danger.
• Never walk or drive through floodwater. Just 30cm of flowing water can move a car.
• Follow updates on local radio and the Met Office.

After the storm

• Check your property for damage once it is safe and take photos for insurance.
• Look in on neighbours, especially anyone older or living alone.
• Recharge and restock your kit ready for the next spell of bad weather.

Printable storm preparation checklist

Information

• ☐ Met Office warnings checked
• ☐ Flood risk checked and flood warnings signed up for
• ☐ 105 and Floodline (0345 988 1188) numbers written down
• ☐ Priority Services Register joined, if eligible

Home

• ☐ Garden items secured or brought indoors
• ☐ Doors and windows fastened
• ☐ Gutters and drains cleared
• ☐ Stopcock location known

Kit

• ☐ Torches or head torches and a lantern
• ☐ Battery or wind-up radio
• ☐ Charged power bank
• ☐ First aid kit and medicines
• ☐ Bottled water and food that keeps
• ☐ Warm clothing and blankets
• ☐ Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag
• ☐ Car kit: blanket, torch, water, snacks

Frequently asked questions

Why are storms given names?

Naming storms helps people follow forecasts and warnings more easily. The Met Office, Met Éireann and KNMI agree a list of names each year.

What is the difference between a yellow and an amber warning?

A yellow warning means some impacts are possible, while amber means impacts are more likely and could disrupt plans. Red means dangerous weather is expected and action should be taken.

How do I get flood warnings?

In England, sign up free through gov.uk or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188. SEPA, Natural Resources Wales and NI Direct cover the rest of the UK.

What should I do if the power goes off in a storm?

Check your consumer unit, then call 105. Switch off appliances, leave one light on, keep the fridge and freezer closed and stay warm.

Can you help me choose the right kit?

Of course. Please contact us through our contact page with any questions.