Severe Weather & Power Cut Preparedness in the UK

The UK energy network is built to deal with tough weather. However, serious weather can still cause power cuts and problems with the electricity supply. Storms, floods, high winds, and freezing temperatures can harm power lines and substations. When this occurs, homes and businesses may lose electricity for several hours or even days. It is important to learn how to prepare for a power cut. This will help you know what to do during a weather-related outage. You can also learn how to ask for compensation for any losses.

How Severe Weather Affects the Energy Supply

Severe weather can change the electricity network in many ways. The effect on the power system depends on the category of the storm and several other factors that influence the distribution of electricity.

Common Causes of Weather-Related Power Cuts

The Met Office evaluates storms based on their impact on the electricity network. They consider more than just the wind speeds.

How to Prepare for a Storm-Related Power Cut

1. Check Weather Warnings & Stay Informed

• The Met Office offers important weather alerts. You should stay updated by listening to national radio stations, watching TV news, or receiving text messages on your phone.
• Keep in contact with your local network operator for news on power cuts.
• You can call 105 for power outages in England, Scotland, and Wales.
• If you face power problems in Northern Ireland, call 03457 643643.

2. Keep Emergency Supplies Ready

Keeping essential items together helps you manage a power outage better.

Tip: A full freezer can keep your food frozen for 48 hours. If your freezer is only half full, it will keep food frozen for 24 hours.

3. Sign Up for the Priority Services Register

If you need more help, like telecare devices, oxygen machines, or stairlifts, you can sign up for the Priority Services Register (PSR).

A free service is offered by your energy supplier.

• Provides extra support.
• Alerts you early about future power cuts.
• Gives quick help during major power outages from bad weather.

Tip: If you have a telecare kit for medical help, talk to your care provider. They might know other ways to keep it powered.

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What to Do During a Storm Power Cut

Step 1: Report the Power Outage

• Check your fuse box to find out if the issue is in your home.
• Talk to your neighbours to see if they also have a power cut.
• Reach out to your local electricity network operator to inform them about the problem.

You can find your local DNO by entering your postcode on the Energy Networks Association website.

Step 2: Stay Safe & Minimise Power Disruptions

• Unplug your electrical devices. This helps prevent damage if power spikes when it comes back on.
• Keep the fridge and freezer doors shut. This keeps your food fresh.
• Avoid using gas stoves or electric heaters to stay warm. They can be dangerous and may cause a fire.
• Check on your neighbors. They may need help, so offer support if you can.
• Use a landline phone or a charged mobile phone for emergency calls.
• If you have an electric stairlift, find the manual release handle. This will help you get to the ground floor safely.

Claiming Compensation for a Storm-Related Power Cut

If bad weather causes a long power outage, you may get a compensation payment. This payment comes from Ofgem's Guaranteed Standards of Performance, also known as GSOP.

Compensation Amounts for Storm Power Cuts

You must submit your claims within three months after the power comes back.

How the Food Standards Agency Recommends Handling Food During Power Cuts

A power cut can spoil food. This could cause health issues. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) offers tips on keeping your food safe during power outages.

Keeping Food Safe During a Power Cut:

• Food in the fridge stays safe for 4 hours when the fridge door is closed.
• A full freezer can keep food frozen for 48 hours. A half-full freezer lasts for 24 hours.
• Only open the freezer door if you really need to. Warm air can reduce the efficiency of the appliance.
• If you are not sure, it is better to throw it out. Discard any food that has gone above 5°C for more than 2 hours.

Tip: You can use frozen water bottles. They can help keep your fridge cool longer during a power outage.

Emergency Services & Household Safety During Power Cuts

A household emergency plan helps keep your family safe. It ensures that you are prepared for long power outages.

Essential Safety Steps:

• Keep emergency contacts close – This means you should have your DNO’s phone number and local emergency services ready.
• Know other ways to heat your home – Do not use gas stoves indoors. This helps avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Check on vulnerable family members – Older relatives and those with additional needs might need extra support.
• Charge mobile phones and power banks – A fully charged power bank can be the only way to stay connected during a power cut.
• Use LED lights instead of candles – Candles can start fires, especially in homes with children or pets.

Tip: If you use landline phones, check that they can work without power.

Some landline providers offer free battery backup solutions.

Business Losses Due to Storm Power Cuts

• Lost sales and missed deadlines – A lot of businesses struggle to operate due to power outages.
• Equipment damage – Sudden power outages and surges can harm electrical devices.
• Supply chain disruptions – Factories and suppliers may halt production, causing delays in deliveries.

Can Businesses Claim Compensation?

Businesses that experience long power cuts may get a compensation payment. This payment will depend on their business insurers and the limit set by Ofgem’s GSOP failure payment rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

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