Storm Risk Explainer
Understand how UK storms develop and what different risk levels mean for your area.
Informational guide Read guide →UK severe weather information, warnings and storm updates
Track developing weather risks across the UK with clear guidance, useful tools, and links to official warning sources.
Live warning panels only display data returned by official or open data sources. No warnings are manually invented.
Latest UK warning information
Warning data is sourced from official and open data providers. This site does not issue warnings independently.
Check your local weather
Search for a UK town, city or postcode area to see current conditions and the short-range forecast.
Flood alerts and river levels
Flood data is sourced from the Environment Agency flood-monitoring API. This primarily covers England.
Weather tools and guides
Practical tools and information to help you understand and prepare for UK severe weather.
Rain Radar
Live rain radar is not yet integrated. This feature will use open radar data when available.
Coming soon Met Office radar →Wind Gust Tracker
See current and forecast wind gust speeds for UK locations using open weather data.
Uses official source links Check wind data →Lightning Risk Guide
Learn about thunderstorm risks, lightning safety, and how to stay protected.
Informational guide Read guide →Flood Risk Lookup
Check Environment Agency flood alerts and river level data for locations in England.
Uses official data Check flood risk →Snow and Ice Guide
Practical advice for driving, walking, and staying safe during winter weather conditions.
Informational guide Read guide →Heat and Health
Information about UK heat-health alerts and how to cope during hot weather periods.
Informational guide Met Office advice →Travel Disruption Checklist
What to check before travelling during severe weather, including transport and road links.
Informational guide View checklist →Storm tracking information
Understand the current storm outlook for the UK, including named storms and severe wind events.
About UK storm tracking
The Met Office names storms expected to cause significant impacts across the UK and Ireland. Storm naming helps raise awareness and encourages preparedness. The storm season typically runs from September to August the following year.
When a named storm is approaching, official warnings are issued by the Met Office National Severe Weather Warning Service (NSWWS). These warnings are based on the expected impacts from wind, rain, snow, ice, and other hazards.
This site does not issue storm names or warnings. Always check the Met Office UK Storm Centre for the latest named storm information and official guidance.
Met Office Storm Centre →What to do during a storm
- Stay informed — check official Met Office warnings
- Secure loose outdoor items such as garden furniture
- Close and securely fasten doors and windows
- Park vehicles in a garage or away from trees
- Avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary
- Stay indoors and away from windows during high winds
- Have torches and batteries ready in case of power cuts
- Check on vulnerable neighbours and relatives
- Keep mobile phones charged
- Do not attempt to repair storm damage during the event
Prepare before severe weather arrives
Practical, calm advice to help you and your family stay safe during different types of severe weather.
Before a storm
- Check the Met Office forecast daily
- Secure or bring inside loose garden items
- Check your roof for loose tiles or felt
- Trim overhanging branches near your property
- Know where your utility shut-off points are
- Prepare an emergency kit with torch and batteries
- Keep a battery or wind-up radio handy
During high winds
- Stay indoors as much as possible
- Keep away from windows and exterior doors
- Do not go outside to repair damage
- If driving, slow down and watch for debris
- Be aware of high-sided vehicles on exposed roads
- Avoid coastal paths and promenades
- Be especially careful near large trees
Heavy rain and flooding
- Check flood alerts for your area
- Move valuables and electrical items upstairs
- Prepare sandbags or flood barriers if at risk
- Do not walk or drive through flood water
- Plan an evacuation route if you live in a flood-risk area
- Stay away from swollen rivers and streams
- Check drains and gutters are clear
Snow and ice
- Check travel conditions before setting out
- Keep an ice scraper, de-icer, and blanket in the car
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip
- Clear paths around your home if safe to do so
- Allow extra time for journeys
- Dress in warm, waterproof layers
- Be aware of ice hidden under snow
Power cuts
- Keep torches and spare batteries accessible
- Have a charged power bank for your phone
- Keep your freezer door closed to preserve food
- Know how to report a power cut to your network operator
- Check on vulnerable neighbours
- Avoid using candles if possible — use LED lights
- Switch off electrical appliances to avoid surges
Travel disruption
- Check your route before setting off
- Allow extra time and drive to conditions
- Carry water, snacks, and warm clothing
- Tell someone your route and expected arrival time
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full
- Carry a phone charger cable in the car
- Consider whether the journey is essential
Severe weather in the UK: what to watch for
Understanding the types of severe weather that affect the UK and why staying informed matters.
UK severe weather warnings
The Met Office National Severe Weather Warning Service (NSWWS) provides official weather warnings across the UK. Warnings are colour-coded — yellow, amber, and red — based on the likelihood and potential impact of weather events. They cover wind, rain, snow, ice, fog, thunderstorms, and extreme heat.
Storms and strong winds
Storms are a regular feature of UK weather, particularly during autumn and winter. Strong winds can bring down trees, damage buildings, disrupt travel, and cause power cuts. The UK experiences named storms when severe conditions are expected to cause significant impacts. Wind warnings are among the most commonly issued UK weather warnings.
Heavy rain and flooding
Heavy and persistent rain can lead to surface water flooding and river flooding across the UK. The Environment Agency monitors flood risk in England, while SEPA covers Scotland, Natural Resources Wales covers Wales, and the Department for Infrastructure covers Northern Ireland. Flooding can occur rapidly, so staying informed is essential.
Thunderstorms and lightning
Thunderstorms can develop quickly, bringing intense rainfall, frequent lightning, hail, and strong gusty winds. They are most common in the UK during the summer months but can occur at any time of year. Lightning poses a risk to people outdoors and can cause power surges and fire.
Snow, ice and winter hazards
Winter weather in the UK can bring widespread snow, freezing rain, and icy conditions. Even small amounts of snow can cause significant disruption. Ice on roads and pavements is a particular hazard for drivers and pedestrians. The Met Office issues snow and ice warnings when these conditions are expected.
Extreme heat and health
Although the UK is not typically associated with extreme heat, heatwaves do occur and can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable people. The UK Health Security Agency issues heat-health alerts during periods of high temperatures. Staying hydrated, keeping cool, and checking on others are key during hot weather.
Why official warnings matter
Weather conditions in the UK can change rapidly. Official warnings help you prepare, make informed decisions, and stay safe. This site provides information and links to official sources — it does not issue warnings independently. Always follow the advice of the Met Office, emergency services, and local authorities during severe weather.
Latest weather explainers
Clear, practical articles to help you understand UK weather risks and how to prepare.
What do UK weather warning colours mean?
Learn how yellow, amber, and red warnings from the Met Office differ, what each colour means for your safety, and how to respond.
How to prepare for strong winds
Practical steps to protect your home, garden, and family before a windstorm arrives, and what to do during and after.
What to do during a thunderstorm
A clear guide to staying safe during thunderstorms, including what to avoid outdoors, driving advice, and indoor safety tips.
How flood alerts and flood warnings differ
Understanding the Environment Agency’s three-tier flood warning system: flood alert, flood warning, and severe flood warning.
How to read wind gust forecasts
Wind gusts can be more damaging than sustained wind speeds. Learn what gust forecasts mean and how to use them to assess risk.