Experts reveal 5 tips to stay safe during Storm Agnes, as ‘danger to life’ warning is issued
- As Storm Agnes sweeps through the UK experts have shared how to stay safe
Storm Agnes, the first named storm of the season, is expected to bring heavy rain and winds of up to 80mph.
The storm is set to batter parts of the UK, from the southwest of England to Scotland and across Northern Ireland.
A severe ‘danger to life’ weather warning was issued over the weekend and initially in place from 10am on Wednesday until 7am on Thursday.
However, the Met Office updated the alert which is now due to come into force at 12 noon on Wednesday and finish at 7am.
Forecasters are warning of ‘flying debris and damage to buildings, as well as power cuts in some areas. While transport disruption is expected with some roads and railways closed.
As Storm Agnes sweeps through the UK, experts have shared their top tips for staying safe.
Weather experts have shared their top tips for staying staff during a storm, as Storm Agnes brings a ‘danger to life’ weather warning
The storm is set to batter parts of the UK, from the southwest of England to Scotland and across Northern Ireland
Five tips to stay safe during Storm Agnes
As Storm Agnes approaches, the Met Office has shared five tips to stay safe in heavy rain.
Check if your property is at risk from flooding
The Met Office has advised people to check if their property is at risk of flooding as Storm Agnes brings heavy rains.
If your property is at risk, it suggests preparing an emergency flood plan and flood kit.
According to the Met Office you may be able to download a flood plan from your local flood agency or council, or you can put together your own by following these steps
- A list of useful contact numbers – including your local council, utility providers and your insurance company
- How to shut off your electricity or gas supply
- Move your valuable belongings to a safe place
- What would you need to move to safety during a flood – think about your pets, car, furniture
- Who could you ask for help?
- Could you offer to help vulnerable friends or neighbours?
As Storm Agnes is expected to bring heavy rains across much of the UK, it is important to check if your property is at risk from flooding
According to Dr Peter Inness, of the Department of Meteorology at the University of Reading, an emergency flood kit includes ‘items such as flashlights, batteries, a portable phone charger, food, water, a first-aid kit, blankets, and medication.’
He added: ‘Power outages and road closures can occur during storms, so it’s important to be self-sufficient for a few days if needed.’
You can see if your property will be affected on the government website.
Protect your home
Dr Inness warned homeowners to take precaution ahead of the storm, he said: ‘Before the storm arrives, secure any loose outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds. This includes patio furniture, gardening equipment and outdoor decorations.’
If your home becomes badly affected by the storm, the Met Office has shared steps you can take.
For example, if you are trapped in a building by floodwater, these simple steps to keeping yourself and your family safe.
- Go to the highest level in the building you are in
- Do not go into attic spaces to avoid being trapped by rising water
- Only go to a roof if necessary
- Call 999 and wait for help
According to a senior meteorologist, you should avoid anything that might put you at risk during Storm Agnes, and avoid coastal areas – especially the seafront
Don’t do anything that puts you at risk
According to the Met Office it is not safe to drive or walk through flooded water, and if you are affected by fast flowing deep water you should call 999 and wait for help.
Jim Dale, Founder and the Senior Meteorological Consultant at British Weather Services also advised avoiding wooded or coastal areas during the storm.
The author of ‘Weather or Not? said: ‘Don’t put yourself in areas of peril, in wooded areas there will be instances of falling trees and broken branches.’
He advised keeping away from coastal areas if possible, particularly the seafront to avoid getting caught by strong waves.
Avoid driving
The Met Office says it is safer not to drive during the storm, but if you can drive more safely by the following steps:
- Slowing down
- Using main roads
- Using dipped headlights
- Giving yourself more time to react on slippery surfaces
- Keeping a bigger gap between vehicles
Experts warn against travelling during a storm, and to only drive if absolutely necessary
According to Dr Inness: ‘The best way to stay safe during Storm Agnes is to remain indoors. Avoid unnecessary travel, and if you must go out, be cautious of falling debris and strong winds.’
Think about your neighbours
During the storm, the Met Office urged people to look out for their neighbours.
Vulnerable people, including older people, those with underlying health conditions and those who live alone may need support with food and medical supplies.
The Met Office advised anyone worried about their health or the health of another to ring NHS 111.
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