Severe weather advice

The Meteorological Office provides local authorities with a Severe Weather Warning Service. It is designed to advise on probably locations and duration of severe weather.

The Cabinet Office are managing a new Winter Weather page bringing together winter preparedness material (floods and extreme weather, power outage) and news in one place on GOV.UK

Precautions to Cope with Severe Weather

Be prepared:

• A supply of torches and/or camping lanterns for emergency lighting
• A camping gas cooker or other means of cooking if you rely entirely on electricity
• A battery-powered radio (make sure you have replacement batteries) in order to receive regular local radio information bulletins
• Adequate insurance to cover your property.

When Severe Weather is Forecast:

• Do not travel unless your journey is absolutely necessary.
• Stow away garden furniture and remove loose articles from outside the house; these might cause damage if blown around.
• Store a few filled containers with fresh water for drinking purposes, especially for young children and for infant fees in case water supplies fail.
• Check your neighbours to see if they need help.

When Severe Weather Strikes:

• Remain indoors, close windows and curtains to protect against breaking glass.
• Have your 'Emergency Pack' ready.
• Listen to the local radio for help and advice.
• Never open deep freezers until electricity is fully restored, cover with newspaper and blankets for extra insulation. If food thaws out do not refreeze, use it straight away or consult Gosport Borough Council Environmental Health Services for general advice.
• Listen to advice given and do not travel.
• Keep warm and eat regularly, even cold food will give you energy.
• If your electricity supply fails, turn off all major appliances, particularly electric fires and cookers, until power is restored.

Further Information

The latest information about services In Hampshire at times of extreme weather, particularly during snow, can be found on Hantsweb.