Severe weather
Flooding, Snow & Cold Weather, Heatwave & Hot Weather, Storms & High Winds
Stay prepared
Whilst Scotland often enjoys a temperate climate we can often experience more extreme weather, with potential to cause severe harm to health and property. Read on for further guidance on mitigating these risks.
Snow and cold weather
Keeping warm should be your main priority during cold snaps. Some people may be more vulnerable to cold than others, particularly the elderly and small children. Be sure to read up on our further guidance for the household during cold weather.
Look out for the signs of hypothermia, and take measures to fight off the cold. Hot drinks, blankets and regular warm meals can all help to keep the body's internal temperature up. Avoid being outdoors as much as possible.
Other measures that can be prepared ahead of time include:
- Draft excluders underneath external doors
- Properly fitted, wind and watertight windows
- Regular boiler maintenance and inspections
- Install loft insulation
The Scottish Government have grants, schemes and loans available to enable household energy efficiency.
Check the weather forecast regularly for an idea of when snow is likely. Plan your journeys accordingly, and remember roads and transport networks are likely to face disruption during the snow. Consider keeping an emergency kit in your car should you get caught in winter conditions.
We keep an active map of grit bin locations across the Stirling area, that the community can use for paths and roads during icy conditions. View the information on gritting
The Scottish Government has also compiled general guidance on snow and cold weather.
Flooding
We have a specific section on our website dedicated to general flooding guidance, resources and risk management strategies from our dedicated team.
The Scottish Government has also compiled information and resources to assist in the event of flooding.
Get in touch with the Scottish Flood Forum for a range of advice on community flood resilience.
Heatwaves and hot weather
The main risks during a heatwave include dehydration, sunburn, sunstroke and exhaustion. Taking sensible precautions, you can avoid falling ill:
- Drink plenty of fluids - in warm weather, sweating will mean your body is losing more fluids than normal, and you should adjust your intake of fluids accordingly.
- Stay out of the sun - direct exposure to sunlight for prolonged periods of time may result in sunburn or other longer-term health conditions.
- Ensure you apply sunscreen with the appropriate SPF factor.
- Take cool showers and baths to stay comfortable.
The Scottish Government have a dedicated section on hot weather, that you can find here for further guidance.
Water Scarcity
During extended periods of hot weather, some properties may experience a shortage of water supply - particularly in rural areas. In these instances, please contact Scottish Water who can further troubleshoot network and supply issues.
Storms and high winds
Occasionally Stirling will experience high winds and stormy weather. You can keep up to date with predicted storms from the UK Met Office.
Common sense should be exercised when preparing for, and during, a storm:
- Secure loose outdoors items - they can become hazards if moved by storm winds.
- Secure all windows and external doors.
- Keep cars and vehicles away from features that can fall on them - fences, trees, power lines for instance.
- Ensure any chimney stacks are maintained and are in good condition. After the storm/winds, carefully inspect the exterior and roof of your home for any missing tiles or damage.
- Check-in with neighbours to ensure they are prepared.
- If you lose power, call 105 for free to liaise with your local network operator.
- Stay indoors as much as possible - if caught out in the open exposed, seek shelter as soon as possible. Be aware that trees may be struck by lightning.
The Scottish Government have further guidance on what to do during Storms/High Winds.