Are You Prepared
for Severe
Gales and Winds

Gale-force winds are the most common cause of damage to property in the United Kingdom. Although the majority of damage reports come from domestic dwellings, businesses also need to be aware of the risks in order to keep employees safe and minimise damage to buildings and content. Storms with high winds can produce devastating consequences, bringing about £300 million in damages throughout the United Kingdom each year.

Met Office Wind Warnings

The United Kingdom’s National Weather Service, the Met Office, provides up-to-date weather advisories and warns the public of severe or hazardous weather through its National Severe Weather Warning Service. Warnings are given a colour (Green, Yellow, Amber or Red) based on the combination of both the likelihood of the severe weather event occurring and the impact the weather conditions may have. Make sure you check your local weather forecast to find out whether the Met Office has released any warnings for your area. You can also find the latest warnings at www.metoffice.gov.uk .

The Met Office provides the following examples of what to expect during severe gales and high winds:

Very Low Threat (Green)

Debris dislodged and some branches removed

Perhaps some very limited travel disruption

Difficulties on certain routes, such as cross winds on exposed or high-level roads

Low Threat (Yellow)

Possible debris being blown around

Some branches or trees may be brought down

Some localised travel disruption

Problems for high-sided vehicles on certain routes (drive with care)

Medium Threat (Amber)

Some travel disruption, such as closed bridges

More widespread tree damage and other debris dislodged from roofs

Some minor structural damage possible

Risk of injury from flying debris

High Threat (Red)

Widespread structural damage, such as roofs blown off, mobile homes overturned and power lines brought down

Risk to personal safety from flying debris

Potentially widespread and prolonged interruptions to power

Widespread transport disruption due to roads blocked by fallen trees and debris

If the Met Office issues a warning for severe gales and high winds in your location, make sure you are prepared. Use the following tips and hints to help ensure your safety if high winds are prevalent.

Before the Storm

Make plans to secure your property. Secure or bring in any loose objects, such as ladders, waste bins, equipment or anything else that could be blown away or into windows and glass.

Securely fasten and close all doors, windows and entrances.

Park all vehicles in a garage, if available. If not, keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences.

Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected if a storm surge or tidal flooding is forecasted.

Be sure trees and shrubs around your property are well-trimmed so they are more wind resistant.

If in a high-rise building, be prepared to take shelter on or below the 10th floor.

Install a generator for emergencies.

Consider building a safe room.

Call today to speak to one of our specialist team on 0800 0113 444.