There are a few things you need to keep on hand as flood warnings have been issued (Image: Getty)
As the UK braces for continued , households across the country are being urged to prepare emergency flood kits to ensure they are equipped for potential disruptions.
The has issued multiple , including yellow alerts for snow, ice, and rain, and an amber warning for heavy snowfall in parts of the country.
With flooding and power outages a growing concern, authorities recommend packing a containing the following seven essential items:
- Insurance documents and contact numbers: Keep these in a waterproof folder to facilitate quick access during emergencies.
- Torch and spare batteries: Ensure you have reliable light sources in case of power cuts.
- First aid kit and prescription medicines: Include any medications you or your family require regularly.
- Warm waterproof clothes and blankets: Stay warm and dry if you need to evacuate or lose heating.
- Bottled water and snacks: Pack enough to sustain your household for at least 24 hours.
- Battery or wind-up radio: Stay updated on weather alerts and official advice if phone networks fail.
- Supplies for babies or pets: Tailor your kit to include items like baby formula, diapers, or pet food.
Households are advised to ensure every family member knows where to find the kit and understands the emergency procedures.
The UK is currently grappling with hazardous weather conditions. A yellow snow and ice warning covers large areas, including the North West, North East, the Midlands, and most of Wales.
Heavy snowfall has already blanketed parts of northern England and southern Scotland, with up to 30 cm expected in some areas tonight.
Meteorologist John Hammond told Sky News that conditions are unfolding as expected. “There’s a lot of heavier snow still falling across parts of northern England, up into southern Scotland, fringing into Northern Ireland as well,” Hammond said.
He added that the weather “is going to start to pivot and head southwards again in the next few hours.”
Preparing a few items could help you out in an emergency (Image: Getty)
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Further south, earlier snow has transitioned into heavy rain, causing rapid thawing and increasing the risk of localized surface water flooding. A yellow rain warning remains in effect for Scotland and parts of southern England until tomorrow morning.
An amber weather warning from the continues to impact significant parts of the country, with fears of widespread disruption. In addition to up to 30 cm of snow in some regions, the warning highlights the potential for power outages and travel disruptions.
The combination of snow, ice, rain, and flooding is expected to disrupt travel and daily life in affected areas.
Residents are urged to monitor weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel, and take proactive measures to ensure safety, including packing flood kits and preparing for power outages.