Storms and severe weather

Storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, thunderstorms and localised flooding. Being prepared can help protect you, your family and your property.

Stay safe during a storm

The safest place to be during a storm is indoors.

You should:

  • secure loose items such as garden furniture, bins and trampolines
  • keep away from windows during periods of strong winds
  • avoid travelling unless your journey is necessary
  • check on neighbours who may need support, particularly older or vulnerable residents

If you are outside, avoid sheltering under trees or near walls, fences and other structures that may be damaged by strong winds.

Report hazards

Report fallen trees, flooding and other hazards that may affect public safety.

Do not approach damaged or fallen power lines.

After the storm

Wait until weather conditions have improved before inspecting damage to your property.

Take extra care around damaged buildings and broken branches, which may still be unstable.

Strong winds can cause damage to buildings, vehicles, trees and other infrastructure. Taking simple precautions can help protect you, your home and your belongings.

Prepare for strong winds

Before a storm or period of strong winds, you should:

  • repair loose roof tiles or other damage to your property where it is safe to do so
  • secure loose items such as ladders, garden furniture, bins and trampolines
  • close and lock doors and windows
  • park vehicles away from trees, buildings, walls and fences where possible
  • charge mobile phones and other essential devices
  • keep a torch and spare batteries available in case of a power cut
  • know where your gas, electricity and water shut-off points are located

During strong winds

Stay indoors where possible until conditions improve.

If you need to go outside:

  • take extra care near buildings, walls and trees
  • avoid areas where debris may fall
  • follow advice from emergency services and local authorities

Only travel if your journey is necessary.

If you are driving:

  • take extra care on exposed roads and bridges
  • be aware of strong crosswinds
  • take care when overtaking large vehicles
  • allow extra time for your journey as roads may be disrupted

After strong winds

Take care when leaving your property after a storm.

You should:

  • look out for falling branches, damaged structures and other hazards
  • avoid touching damaged electricity or telephone cables
  • report fallen trees or debris that may affect public safety
  • check your property for damage when it is safe to do so

Do not attempt repairs while weather conditions remain unsafe.

Power cuts and emergencies

Strong winds can sometimes cause power cuts.

To report a power cut or get information about an outage, call 105.

Call 999 if there is an immediate danger to life or a serious emergency.

Prepare for flooding

Heavy rainfall can increase the risk of flooding.

  • keep gutters, drains and drainage channels clear of leaves and debris
  • move valuable items and important documents to higher shelves or upper floors if flooding is expected
  • know whether your property is at risk of flooding

Croydon Council does not provide sandbags to individual households. Residents who believe their property is at risk should make their own arrangements for flood protection.

Properties next to watercourses

If your property borders a river, stream, ditch or other watercourse, you may be a riparian owner.

Riparian owners are responsible for maintaining the watercourse and keeping water flowing freely through their section.

Useful contacts

Emergency services

Telephone: 999

Use this number if there is an immediate danger to life.

Croydon Council

Telephone: 020 8726 6000

For council emergencies, fallen trees and severe weather issues.

UK Power Networks

Telephone: 105

For power cuts and dangerous electricity cables.

Thames Water

Telephone: 0800 316 9800

For sewer flooding and water supply emergencies.

Environment Agency Floodline

Telephone: 0345 988 1188

For flood warnings and advice.

National Gas Emergency Service

Telephone: 0800 111 999

For gas leaks and gas emergencies.

Support for vulnerable residents

If you rely on electricity for medical equipment, have a disability, or need extra support during emergencies, consider registering for the Priority Services Register with your utility providers.

Find out about the Priority Services Register

During significant incidents, the council may open emergency rest centres or provide additional support for affected residents.

Follow Croydon Council communication channels for the latest information during severe weather events.

Financial and housing support

If severe weather has affected your housing situation or caused financial hardship, contact the council for advice and support.

Email: gcc@croydon.gov.uk