The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is urging the public to take extra precautions ahead of Storm Bram, which is set to lash the UK with torrential rain and fierce winds.
Storm Bram is set to hit the UK on Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing severe winds and heavy rain. An amber warning for north-west Scotland predicts gusts up to 90mph, while saturated ground in Wales and south-west England increases the risk of flooding. These conditions could cause building damage and major transport disruption.
Yellow warnings will also cover large parts of the UK, including Wales, south-west England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, with gusts of 50-60mph and locally over 70mph. Combined with heavy rain, this poses significant safety risks, including hazardous travel, delays, and cancellations.
RoSPA advises the public to take immediate steps to reduce the risk of injury and disruption:
- Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in areas under Amber warnings or where flooding is likely.
- Keep mobile phones and essential devices fully charged in case of power cuts.
- Monitor official weather updates and follow instructions from local authorities.
- Secure outdoor items such as bins, signage, and garden furniture to prevent damage.
- Prepare a basic emergency kit with torches, batteries, and non-perishable food.
- Stay indoors during periods of severe weather and ensure windows and doors are shut.
- Check in on vulnerable neighbours, particularly those living alone or in rural areas.
Driving safety tips during heavy rain and flooding
- Rain reduces visibility and doubles stopping distances: slow down and plan manoeuvres early.
- Use windscreen wipers, washers, and dipped headlights at all times.
- Aquaplaning happens when tyres lose grip on surface water: reduce speed, maintain correct tyre pressure and tread depth. If it occurs, ease off the accelerator and brakes until grip returns.
- On flooded roads: avoid deep water near kerbs, don’t cross if depth is uncertain, and if you proceed, drive slowly in first gear, keep engine speed high, and test brakes after exiting water.
- Avoid flooded areas wherever possible.
Steve Cole, Policy Director at RoSPA, said: “Storm Bram isn’t just a risk outdoors; homes may be vulnerable too. Secure garden furniture, bins, and anything that could blow away or cause damage. Indoors, make sure windows and doors are firmly shut and keep an emergency kit ready.”
“On the roads, your regular journey may be difficult. Rain doubles stopping distances and aquaplaning can happen in seconds. Slow down, keep your distance, and never attempt to drive through floodwater. These simple steps can help protect your home, your journey and keep communities safe.”
