Tag Archive for: storm

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Weather Warning: Everything You Need to Know About Storm Chandra

The Met Office has issued amber and yellow weather warnings as Storm Chandra approaches the UK. The storm is expected to bring a mix of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal impacts from Tuesday onwards.

Storm Chandra is the fifth named storm of the 2025 to 2026 season. It is currently moving east across the Atlantic and is forecast to affect large parts of the South West and Wales before tracking northwards.

Areas Most at Risk

A yellow wind warning is in force for Cornwall, southwest Wales, and parts of northern Devon. The strongest winds are expected across the Isles of Scilly, western Cornwall, and southwest Wales, with gusts of 70 to 80 mph possible.

These areas remain vulnerable after recent storm activity, increasing the risk of further damage. An amber rain warning covers south Devon, much of Dorset, southern Somerset, and southeast Cornwall. Rainfall totals of 30 to 50 mm are expected across many areas, with higher ground such as south Dartmoor potentially seeing up to 60 to 80 mm.

Why This Storm Poses a Higher Risk

Ground conditions across Dorset and parts of Devon, Somerset, and Cornwall are already saturated. Extra rainfall could cause surface water flooding, water ingress, and drainage problems, even where flooding has not happened before.

Strong winds and heavy rain heighten the risk of roof damage, falling debris, and water entering buildings through weakened points. Damage may not be immediately visible and can develop hours or days after the storm has passed.

Travel and Infrastructure Disruption

Significant travel disruption is expected during the warning period. Road and bridge closures are possible, and delays or cancellations may affect rail, air, and ferry services.

The Met Office has also warned that power outages could occur as the storm moves inland. Loss of electricity may disrupt mobile phone networks and internet services, affecting both homes and businesses.

Coastal Impacts

Large and powerful waves are forecast along exposed coastlines. These conditions may deposit debris and beach material onto seafronts and nearby properties. People are advised to keep well clear of coastal areas during the storm to reduce the risk of injury.

After the Storm

Damage caused by severe weather often becomes visible after conditions settle. Roof leaks, ceiling stains, damp smells, and concealed water ingress are common problems following storms of this kind.

If property damage happens, prompt assessment and response can minimise long-term effects and disruptions.

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Here’s Everything You Need To Know Prior to Storm Goretti

Storm Goretti is expected to bring severe winter weather to large parts of the UK, with amber warnings in place across several regions. Falling temperatures, heavy snow, and widespread ice raise risks to people, property, and travel. Preparing now helps reduce disruption and damage.

What to expect from Storm Goretti

Temperatures continue to fall across central and eastern England. Storm Goretti is forecast to bring heavy snow from Thursday night into Friday. Many amber warning areas may see 5 to 10cm of snowfall, with up to 20cm possible on higher ground.

The Met Office cautions about icy conditions on untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths. Slips, falls, and vehicle accidents are more likely. Travel delays are anticipated across road and rail networks, with possible disruptions to public transport and power outages.

Overnight temperatures have already dropped below -10°C in some parts of the country. Prolonged cold weather increases the risk of frozen pipes, burst plumbing, roof leaks, and internal flooding. When thawing begins, water can spread rapidly through floors, walls, and ceilings if damage goes unnoticed.

Saturday is expected to remain cold but mainly dry, with wintry showers along the northern coasts. Milder air should arrive from Sunday. The UK Health Security Agency has extended amber cold health alerts across England until 11 January due to ongoing risks.

A weather warning map for 8 January. Pic: Met Office

A weather warning map for 8 January. Reference: Met Office

How to stay safe during Storm Goretti

Simple steps can help protect you and your property during harsh winter weather.

  • Avoid unnecessary travel during amber warnings. Check conditions before leaving and allow extra time.
  • Wear footwear with good grip to minimise the risk of slipping on ice.
  • Keep entrances, pathways, and steps clear. Use salt or grit where feasible.
  • Protect your pipes by insulating exposed sections and keeping the heating on at a low setting during freezing temperatures.
  • Know the location of your stopcock so you can turn off the water quickly if a pipe bursts.
  • Check roofs and gutters when it is safe. Snow accumulation and blocked drainage increase the risk of leaks during thawing.
  • Watch for signs of dampness indoors. Cold and moisture provide the perfect conditions for mould to grow.

How ServiceMaster Restore can help

ServiceMaster Restore supports homes and businesses affected by severe weather. Our teams specialise in flood damage restoration, water damage recovery, and mould removal and remediation. We respond quickly to prevent further damage, dry affected areas, and restore properties safely after storms, flood and water damage.

If Storm Goretti causes water ingress, burst pipes, or mould issues in your property, early action reduces repair time and cost.

ServiceMaster Restore is ready to help when winter weather takes its toll. Call us today on 0800 0213970.

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How to prepare your property for Storm Agnes: Top Safety Tips

Storm Agnes is coming.

With the area of low-pressure officially dubbed Storm Agnes by the Met Office set to hit much of the UK this week, here’s everything you need to know and how to prepare to prevent potential damages.

What can we expect from Storm Agnes?

The Met Office warns that:

“Storm Agnes will move into western areas of the UK and Ireland on Wednesday, with the strongest winds most likely on Irish Sea coasts, though it will be a widely windy day across the UK.”

Rain

To be more precise, we can expect around 60mm of rain in some areas of Scotland and heavy rain across the UK.

As Agnes moves north towards the end of the week, rain will move south in heavy bursts on Thursday and Friday across England and Wales.

Wind

A yellow weather warning for wind has also been issued across the UK on Wednesday and Thursday, with only the southeast of England currently except.

Inland areas can expect a high likelihood of wind gusts around 50 to 60mph, while exposed areas like coastland may see gusts ranging from 65-80mph.

This may cause transport disruption, with some roads and bridges closing.

Preventing Potential Property Damage

The wind warning may pose a risk to buildings, as well as the possibility of power cuts for some.

Wind is the most common form of damage and disruption in the UK, with 184 recorded deaths from wind-related building failures between 1962 and 1995.

Here are our top tips for storm preparation:

  1. Secure Loose Objects

Secure all loose objects such as ladders, outdoor furniture, or anything that could be blown into windows and cause damage.

  1. Fasten Doors and Windows

Close and securely fasten all doors and windows, like those for a garage.

  1. Gas, Electric and Water Supply

Remind yourself how to turn off your gas, electric and water supplies. You may need to do this in a pinch, and it’s best to be prepared.

  1. Check all Gutters are Clear

Check all of your gutters and drain pipes are clear to avoid blockages.

  1. Unplug Electronics

Unplug all non-essential electrical appliances.

  1. Have an Evacuation Plan

Have an evacuation plan ready in case of an emergency.

What if Storm Agnes damages your property?

If your property is the victim of damage during Storm Agnes, ServiceMaster Restore will be there to aid in the aftermath and restoration.

To learn more about our services, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today or call 0845 762 6828 in an emergency.