Britons are being advised to put together an emergency kit as Storm Amy sweeps across the UK, causing widespread power outages and flooding.
The Met Office has issued weather warnings covering the entire country, with the storm’s disruptions expected to persist over the weekend.
Destructive winds of 96mph hit Tiree in the Hebrides on Friday, and the ‘danger to life’ alert remains in effect, leading to travel disruptions, power line damage, and high waves.
In Northern Ireland, over 20,000 individuals are currently experiencing power loss, with more severe winds and heavy rainfall predicted for today.
The Met Office recommends that those under weather alerts should prepare a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.
There is a possibility of additional power failures that could impact services like mobile phone connectivity.
To brace for potential power cuts, the Met Office advises the public to stock up on essential items like torches, batteries, and a mobile phone power pack.
Residents in Scotland can assess their home’s vulnerability to flash floods by visiting the Scottish Environment Protection Agency website.
Creating an effective flood plan involves compiling important contact numbers, such as those for the local council, insurance firms, and utility providers.
Additionally, people should secure valuable items, learn how to shut off electricity or gas, and offer assistance to vulnerable neighbors or friends.
Recommended items for flood kits include insurance documents, torches, first aid supplies, warm clothing, water, snacks, and communication devices.
The Met Office emphasizes the importance of staying informed about changing weather conditions and suggests checking road conditions and transportation schedules.
Households are advised to use a simple method during the storm to maintain warmth by placing a piece of toilet paper near windows, as indicated by Insurance specialist Kara Gammell.
Gammell highlights that preventing air gaps not only keeps homes warm but also helps prevent dampness and mold growth.
She also dispels the misconception that flood risks are limited to water-adjacent areas, noting that a significant portion of floods occur in zones classified as outside flood risk areas.