Weather

Move yourself, your family and your pets away from danger. Call 999 immediately if anyone is in danger. Turn off gas, electricity and water only if it is safe to do so, and do not use electrical appliances during flooding. Do not walk, cycle or drive through floodwater. If the emergency services tell you to evacuate, leave and follow their directions. Floods guide ›

Check outside for anything that could move, including bins, plant pots, ladders, garden furniture, trampolines and tents. Put smaller items away and secure larger ones. Check fences and roof tiles, clear gutters and fix broken tiles before the wind arrives. Close and securely fasten doors and windows, especially those facing the wind and large garage doors. Storms guide ›

Check the latest Met Office forecast and warning for your area, because warnings can change quickly. Put off unnecessary journeys, check your heating and supplies, charge your phone and gather torches, batteries, blankets and warm clothing. Tell someone if you must travel, and check on neighbours or relatives who may need extra help. Snow and Ice guide ›

Move them somewhere cool, help them rest, give them water and help them cool down. Stay with them and watch whether they improve. Heat exhaustion can become heatstroke, which is potentially serious. If you suspect that has happened, call 999 rather than waiting for further deterioration. Heatwaves guide ›

A hosepipe ban, formally called a Temporary Use Ban, is a legal restriction introduced by a water company when supplies are under pressure. It prevents specified uses of a mains-connected hosepipe, such as watering a garden, washing a private car or filling a paddling pool. It does not normally restrict essential household water for drinking, cooking, showering and washing. Drought guide ›

Use the official flood risk check for your area and look at the relevant flood maps. If you live in an area at risk, register for free warnings by phone, text or email. Floodline provides warnings and flooding information in England, Scotland and Wales. You can also view the Environment Agency's five-day flood forecast on GOV.UK. Floods guide ›

Official high-wind advice gives two options: turn the trampoline upside down or secure it with tent pegs. Do this as part of your preparations before the storm, alongside moving or securing garden furniture, bins and plant pots. Shed doors should be locked. Do not go outside to adjust or repair items while the storm is still blowing. Storms guide ›

Heat rooms you use a lot to 21°C through the day and at least 18°C at night. WeatherReady also advises heating your home, and those of elderly relatives and neighbours, to at least 18°C. Close curtains and internal doors to retain heat, use draught excluders and wear two or three thinner layers rather than one thick item. Snow and Ice guide ›