Just one in eight people in the UK is fully prepared for severe winter weather, according to research by the Met Office, as Storm Austen is forecast to bring strong winds to parts of the country.
The forecaster has issued an amber weather warning, its second-highest alert tier, for Cornwall, Devon, the Isles of Scilly and Plymouth from 3am to 10am on Friday. The warning comes as the first named storm of the season is expected to sweep across these areas.
Survey Highlights Gaps in Preparedness
The Met Office found that only 13% of people say they are ready for severe winter weather. However, more than a quarter (27%) of those surveyed said this summer's heatwaves had made them take forecasts and warnings more seriously, while 29% said they were now more likely to follow advice accompanying future weather warnings.
When asked about winter preparations, people cited ensuring essential supplies are available at home (41%), putting away garden items ahead of stormy weather (36%), checking forecasts more regularly (29%) and preparing their vehicle for winter conditions (28%).
Met Office Encourages Practical Action
Holly Clements, head of warning and guidance at the Met Office, said the findings showed that people were increasingly using weather warnings to make more practical decisions. She added: "It's encouraging that research suggests more people are paying attention to weather forecasts, warnings and advice and using that information to take practical action."
Ms Clements said: "When more people are prepared, it can also ease pressure on emergency responders and public services, allowing them to focus on those most in need. That's why we're encouraging everyone to make use of the forecasts, warnings and practical advice available from the Met Office and take a few simple steps to be weather-ready."
