British Red Cross urges people to prepare as Storm Bram is expected to bring strong winds and widespread rain 

As Storm Bram moves towards the UK with powerful winds and another spell of heavy rain for parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, south Wales and south-west England, the British Red Cross is asking people to take a moment today to prepare. 

Gusts of up to 90mph are expected in north-west Scotland, and saturated ground in Wales and the South West means even small amounts of rain could cause disruption. 

Travel delays, power cuts and localised flooding are likely over the next few days. British Red Cross teams have already been responding to floods over the past month in Carmarthenshire and Monmouthshire, Wales, providing welfare checks and emergency cash support to households 

Eleanor Stack, Operations Lead at the British Red Cross, said: 

“We've all seen the pictures from the recent flooding — flooded streets and car parks, ground floors of shops and houses under water, families carrying their belongings through the rain. 

"With Storm Bram bringing more strong winds and heavy rain, it’s important to be alert and prepare for the storm now. We also know that people may be anxious about potential flooding and power outages, especially in communities who have been recently impacted. 

“Being ready can ease some of that stress. Simple actions like securing outdoor items, checking the latest local guidance, and making a household plan, including for pets, can help people feel more prepared and more in control. 

“As Storm Bram brings heavy rain and strong winds, our emergency response teams are ready to support local authorities and communities that may be affected.” 

Recent British Red Cross research has shown that flooding often hits those already facing other challenges the hardest. Many people receive little warning or clear guidance ahead of severe weather. Community action is one of the most effective ways for people to regain a sense of agency and support after a disruptive event. 

Our storm advice can help people prepare and feel more confident before and after weather conditions worsen. 

Preparing for a storm  

Outdoors

• Check for loose or cracked roof tiles that could easily fly off in strong winds. Also, check aerials and satellite dishes are properly attached.   
• Remove loose bricks from around the chimney stack and inside the home and move furniture from the area directly below. Avoid it until the storm has passed.  
• Clear moss and leaves from guttering to prevent them from overflowing.   
• Secure loose objects that could be blown away and cause damage e.g. a trampoline.  
• Remove hazardous branches that are loose or overhanging your garden. Make sure to speak to the property owner if the trees are not on your property.  
• Secure fencing and gates. Ensure they are in good condition.  
• Park vehicles in a garage or away from buildings, trees, walls, and fences.  
• Keep informed – storms can result in flooding, ensure you are signed up for the latest flood alerts or for those not online, listen for updates on local radio.   
• Register in advance with the Priority Services Register (PSR) if you are a vulnerable person in England, Scotland and Wales. If you live in Northern Ireland, register with NIE Networks Medical Customer Care Register.  

You can also find British Red Cross flood advice on our website.  

What to do during a storm  

At home/in a building 

• If you can, stay inside until the storm has passed.   
• Shut all windows, close doors, and keep away from windows.  
• Do not use a landline telephone unless it's an emergency.  
• If your electricity is cut off during a storm, follow our advice on staying safe in a power cut.  
• Do not attempt any repairs while the storm is ongoing, wait until it has passed. Be aware that even after, there is still a danger.  
• If you must leave the house, use an exit or entrance that's sheltered from the storm.  
• Stay away from boundary walls and fences; it they fall, you may be injured.  
• If you're not at home, don't attempt to travel. Instead, seek shelter nearby in a building or vehicle.  

Driving in a storm  

• Don't drive unless your journey is necessary, instead delay your journey or change plans.  
• If you are already driving, exit the highway and park in a safe location.  
• Heavy rain and high winds make driving treacherous. Drive slowly and stick to the main roads.  
• Take extra care when in highly exposed areas and around high-sided vehicles.    

What to do after a storm  

• Don't walk too close to walls, buildings, and trees as they could have been weakened   
• If you feel safe and can, check on vulnerable neighbours or family members  
• If you want to report a fallen tree, contact your local council. Find your local council website.  
• If a fallen tree or hazard is an immediate danger to life, please call 999   

 More information on how to prepare for disasters and emergencies, and how to prepare an emergency kit can be found at www.redcross.org.uk/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/support-during-a-storm.  

ENDS   

Notes to editors   

The British Red Cross published a new report on flooding on 25 September 2025 -  

‘Water’s Edge: Understanding flood preparedness, impact and recovery in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities’ - available here.  

The report warns that flooding disproportionately affects the UK’s socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. It found that many people at risk had never seen official flood guidance, and experienced barriers to accessing support.   

British Red Cross     

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. 

Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk    

About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk