Giant Waves, Fierce Wind and More Leaking Roofs – Welcome Imogen

Storm Quentin? Ursula? Xavier, Yolanda and Zachary? Luckily, the UK won't be getting any trouble from these storms but that’s only because Q, U, X, Y and Z are the only letters not used when giving the fierce and frightening tempests their names! Instead, the next to be gracing us with her presence is Imogen, who is sweeping in from the south as this article is being typed. Yet more damage from leaking roofs is expected! Are you prepared this time?

Storm Imogen in Facts and Figures

• Heavy rain and 80mph winds are predicted by the NINTH major storm to hit our shores this winter - it seems like we are getting just a little bit more than our fair share!
• The Met Office have put YELLOW ’Be Aware’ weather warnings in place across much of the southwest of the country and more serious AMBER ‘Be Prepared’ warnings stretching from the Thames Estuary to the south of Wales
• Currently, these warnings are set to last from 3am until 6pm on Monday 8th January though this could change quickly so it is best to check the latest, up-to-the-minute info
• Exposed areas on England’s south coast are on high alert for the very strongest winds: the Met Office have also warned of ‘very large waves’ along the north coast of Devon and Cornwall
• Forecaster Craig Snell warned people that they “should be prepared for disruption to travel on roads, rail, bridges and ferries and could see possible damage to structures and downed trees, risking affecting power. The wind will be combined with some hefty showers with some thunder along the south coast.”
• The M48 bridge over the River Severn has already been close to high-sided vehicles from either direction - the M4 alternative crossing is currently still open
• Some cross-channel ferry services have been cancelled or rescheduled
• The wind is expected to ease by Tuesday, heralding a short, dry interlude before more wind and rain heads our way by Friday
• South West Trains plan to run a normal weekend timetable but warned that potential delay-causing incidents of trees or other windblown debris blocking lines could not be ruled out. They were quick to point out that safety was their number one priority
• Imogen will be paving the way for her big brother, who will be called Jake and will be the next storm to hit the UK

Preparing for the onslaught of Imogen need not be difficult, expensive or time-consuming. Start browsing our list and subscribe to our newsletter for news about flood remediation.