Severe storm / high winds
What to do before and during a storm or high winds in the UK — act on Met Office warnings and stay safe indoors.
WHAT TO DO NOW
- 1Check Met Office warnings and only travel if necessary.
- 2Secure or bring in loose objects outside (bins, furniture, trampolines).
- 3Stay indoors and away from windows during the worst of the storm.
- 4Park vehicles away from trees, walls and the seafront.
- 5Charge phones and power banks; get your torch and battery radio ready in case of power cuts.
- 6Report downed power lines by calling 105; never touch them.
What not to do
- Do not go out to the coast or cliffs to watch the storm.
- Do not drive through flood water or fallen debris.
- Do not touch fallen power cables — call 105 or 999.
What is it?
Severe storms bring damaging winds, heavy rain and sometimes coastal surge. The Met Office issues yellow, amber and red National Severe Weather Warnings.
What might happen?
Fallen trees and debris, structural damage, travel disruption, power cuts and, on the coast, dangerous surge and large waves.
First 10 minutes
Check the warning level and forecast. Secure loose items. Plan to stay in during the peak.
First hour
Stay indoors, away from windows. Keep monitoring updates. Delay travel until winds ease. Prepare for possible power cuts.
First 24 hours
After the storm, watch for damage and fallen cables; report power cuts on 105. Only go out when safe. Help neighbours check for damage.
If it continues for several days
For prolonged or repeated storms, keep supplies topped up and follow rolling Met Office and local updates.
Children
Keep children indoors and calm during the peak; make a game of the 'stay-in' time.
Older & vulnerable people
Check vulnerable neighbours are indoors and prepared, especially if power cuts are likely.
Pets
Bring pets indoors and keep them calm; walk dogs before the storm arrives.
Communications
Keep a charged phone and battery radio; sign up for Met Office warnings and weather alerts.
Official sources
This guidance is an editorial explanation of official UK advice. Always follow instructions from the authorities.
- Met Office Published 2025-01-01
- GOV.UK — Prepare Published 2024-06-01