Severe weather

What happens in the case of severe weather

In the case of extreme weather conditions, our repairs service may be affected. This is because our contractors may find it hard to reach customers in some locations.

We will always work hard to maintain essential services and reach customers as quickly as possible. However, if extreme weather occurs, it may cause changes or delays to some non-emergency repairs.

While all repair works are important, we will prioritise emergency repairs in the case of severe weather. Customer safety is extremely important to us, and we want to make sure we can address any urgent issues quickly.

If our contractor needs to change an appointment, they will contact you directly to arrange another suitable date and time.

Weather warnings

The Met Office issues warnings based on the impact weather might have, rather than intensity alone. For example, a yellow wind warning might be issued in summer but not in winter, even if wind speeds are similar. This is because there might be outdoor events in the area. The wind is likely to pose more of a threat in summer than in winter, where many people will remain indoors.

Find out more about how and why weather warnings are issued on the Met Office’s website.

What do you need help with?

Strong winds and storms

Heavy rain and flooding

Snow and ice

Extreme heat and water restrictions

Home safety in colder weather

Strong winds and storms

Strong winds and storms can cause damage through flying debris and fallen trees. If you live near a coastal area, there can also be a danger of high waves.

The Met Office advises staying indoors if there is a weather warning in place for high winds or storms in your area. If you have an essential journey you can't cancel, plan ahead for travelling in windy weather.

Heavy rain and flooding

Heavy rain, or rain that lasts for a prolonged period of time, can cause a number of issues. It can make it more difficult to travel. If you do have to drive somewhere in heavy rain, the Met Office offers some advice around how to stay safe on the roads.

Rain can also lead to flooding. You can sign up for flood alerts on gov.uk if you want to be notified when they’re in place near where you live. The service is free of charge.

If there is a flood warning in place near you, have a plan in case you do need to evacuate. You can find useful information to help you create a ‘flood plan’ on

Snow and ice

Snow and ice can cause disruption on the roads and rail network. It’s best to avoid travelling in heavy snow or icy conditions if possible.

If you can’t cancel your journey, prepare for your trip. Check your wipers, tyres and screenwash, pack a bag of essentials, and plan your route carefully. Always carry a fully-charged mobile phone.

Heavy snow and ice can also lead to power cuts. It’s worth stocking up on blankets, food and torches with batteries in winter, just in case. Wrap up warm, close internal doors and turn off any electrical appliances which shouldn’t be left unattended. You can call 105 in England, Scotland and Wales for free advice and support in the case of a power cut.

Extreme heat and water restrictions

Weather warnings for extreme heat may be issued if it’s likely the temperature will have a significant impact.

Extremely hot weather can affect your heart and lungs. Overexposure to sun can also lead to sunburn, sunstroke or heat exhaustion. High temperatures can also affect travel, water and energy suppliers, and the emergency services.

If a weather warning for extreme heat’s been issued in your area, avoid staying in the sun for long stretches of time. Try to keep your house cool by closing blinds and curtains, drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly.

Long periods of heat may lead to drought, which is where water levels become extremely low. This can, in turn, lead to water restrictions being put in place. To find out about any current water restrictions in your area, visit your water company’s website.

Home safety in colder weather

Keeping you safe in your home is really important to us. This leaflet provides you with some helpful advice for caring for your home during the colder weather, so that you and your family can stay safe, comfortable and warm.

The leaflet includes advice around what to do if you think you smell gas, tips which might help you save money on energy costs, and how extreme weather may affect our services.

Download leaflet

Further information

Contents insurance

We recommend taking out contents insurance to protect your personal belongings. We offer a contents insurance scheme for our customers.

Apply online

Weather warnings in the UK

Visit the Met Office's website for any current extreme weather warnings in the UK.

Go to Met Office

Water saving tips

Ofwat offers some handy tips on how to save water.

Browse Tips