How to prepare for a storm or flooding

Storms can damage power, internet and phone networks, bring trees down and disrupt travel. GOV.UK advises paying extra attention when the Met Office names a storm, as named storms are more likely to have the biggest impacts. Heavy rain and storm surges can also lead to flooding.

Understand the warning

The Met Office issues weather warnings up to seven days ahead for rain, thunderstorms, wind, snow, lightning, ice, extreme heat and fog. The colour reflects both how severe the impacts could be and how likely they are, so it's worth reading each one:

• Yellow: covers a range of situations. Many people can carry on as normal, but check whether you could be affected.
• Amber: an increased likelihood of impacts that could disrupt your plans, such as travel delays, power cuts and possible risk to life and property. Think about changing plans and protecting your home.
• Red: dangerous weather is expected. Act now to keep yourself and others safe, avoid travelling where possible and follow the emergency services' advice.

Flood warnings are separate. You can check flooding for the next 5 days and sign up for free flood warnings by text, phone or email on GOV.UK, or through Floodline. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own flood services, linked from the same page.

Before the storm

• Charge mobile phones, power banks and any back-up batteries for medical equipment, in case the power goes off.
• Secure anything that could blow around: ladders, trampolines, garden furniture, toys and play equipment.
• Close and fasten doors and windows, especially on the side facing the wind, and large doors such as garage doors. Bolt loft hatches.
• Park in a garage if you can, otherwise away from buildings, trees, walls and fences.
• Limit travel. If you must go, allow extra time and follow any "do not travel" notices.
• Check whether schools are closing, and check in on anyone who might need practical help.

During the storm

• Stay inside unless you really need to go out. If you do, keep away from buildings, fences, walls and trees, and use doors on the sheltered side.
• Don't go outside to repair damage while the storm is still going.
• Keep well away from fallen or damaged power lines. Report power cuts online or on 105.
• Storms can also cut water supplies, so keep your bottled water handy.

If you get a flood warning

A flood warning means flooding is expected. GOV.UK advises:

• Move your family, pets and important items to safety, for example upstairs or to higher ground.
• Use flood protection products if you have them, such as barriers or air brick covers.
• Turn off gas, electricity and water if it's safe to do so. Never touch an electrical switch while standing in water.
• Don't drive through flood water. Only move your car to higher ground if it's safe.
• Follow advice from your council or the emergency services. You may be asked to evacuate.

A severe flood warning means danger to life. Call 999 if anyone is in immediate danger, leave if the emergency services tell you to, and don't put yourself at risk to move cars or belongings. Never walk, cycle or drive through flood water: it can contain sewage and hide debris, broken drains and missing manhole covers.

A small flood kit

If flooding is a risk where you live, the British Red Cross suggests keeping important documents in waterproof bags, emergency contacts and medication easy to reach, and essentials packed together in case you have to leave at short notice. GOV.UK suggests making a personal flood plan and keeping it with spare medication, documents and contact details. Our suggestion: two roll-top dry bags (10 to 20 litres), a whistle, duct tape and spare house and car keys.

After the storm

• Don't touch cables that have been blown down or are hanging.
• Keep away from walls, buildings and trees that may have been weakened.
• Check on neighbours or relatives who might need support.
• If your home is flood damaged and you can't stay there, contact your local council about emergency accommodation.

Related: what to do in a power cut, the emergency kit checklist and our Storm & Flood page.

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