What are the local risks?
Severe weather
The United Kingdom has its share of severe weather due to its maritime temperate climate with occasional continental and arctic influences. These air masses can bring heavy rain or snow, strong winds and extreme temperatures. Global warming is likely to cause more frequent and severe extremes of weather.
Weather forecasting can now give warning of most events and offer general advice. Bedfordshire and Luton responding organisations receive weather warnings and updates from the Met Office which are also commercially available to businesses and individuals.
Gales
The United Kingdom regularly experiences strong winds, especially in autumn (September to November). Gale-force winds can be widespread, with mostly superficial damage. However, debris can cause significant damage to property and also injury or death. Driving becomes more hazardous, because it is more difficult to control a vehicle, and because of debris on the roads and road blockages.
Keep any loose items secured or bring them inside and ensure external fittings are in good repair, for example aerials, roof tiles, gutters and drainage pipe. Consider getting a professional to check your property.
When strong winds do occur, you should 'Go in, stay in and tune in'. Weather forecasts often provide advance warning of any gale-force winds and offer some practical advice. Do not go outside to secure items when it is exceptionally windy – people have died after going out to secure roof tiles and being blown over with their ladder in high winds.
Strong winds can cause significant disruption to businesses due to structural damage and route blockages. Consider this in your business continuity plan – what if your premises are out of action while the roof is being repaired?
Cold temperatures and heavy snow
Since 1995-96, winters in the UK have been mild, giving the impression that mild winters are now the norm. Even an 'average' British winter could come as a surprise to many, resulting in disruption.
Prepare for winter driving by having your car checked, making sure that tyres are in good order and that you have spare washer fluid for the windscreen and spare bulbs. When wintry weather is expected, keep a shovel, blanket and spare food and drink in your car so you can look after yourself if you get stuck.
Visit www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/advice/snow.html for more information about winter driving.
Heatwave
During hot weather, too much sun or extreme heat can damage health. Some people, such as the very young and the elderly, are especially vulnerable. Remember that it does not have to be hot for you to suffer the effects, which can range from sunburn to skin cancer from over-exposure to the sun. Extreme heat can force your body to work extra hard to keep cool.
The Met Office's website has practical information for staying safe during a heatwave at www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/advice/heat.html.
See the Department of Health's various heatwave plans: look up www.dh.gov.uk and search 'heatwave'.
To learn more about local plans in place to respond to this hazard click here.
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